World-first fundraiser turns up the heat with Sahara challenge!
Just two days ago, a dedicated fundraiser took the first steps in an incredible, world-first challenge as he fights to raise much-needed funds for veterans and sick children.
Former soldier Gavin Sandford, a 43-year-old who now works as a theatre practitioner, is no stranger to extreme experiences. In 2014, Gavin ran 45 marathons in 45 days- while pushing a 50kg barrel filled with donations he collected on the way- covering a total distance of 1,200 miles across the UK coastline.
Following this incredible feat, Gavin is now going one step further and, in April 2016, will be attempting a world first.
Gavin plans to run the infamous Marathon Des Sables; the equivalent of five-and-a-half marathons undertaken over five or six days, all in the blistering heat of the Sahara desert.
But that’s not all…
Not only has Gavin decided to tackle the race, set in the unforgiving landscape of the Sahara, but he has also decided to take on the challenge not once, but TWICE, back-to-back.
The standard race is 250km over six days. Gavin will attempt the two routes one after the other, covering a total of 500km over 12 days. He runs ‘self-sufficiently’ by carrying all that he needs to survive on his back.
If he is successful, Gavin will be the first person in history to have ever completed such a feat. The first leg of his journey began just two days ago – good luck Gavin!
Reflecting upon the challenge he has set for himself, Gavin stated: “I have decided to attempt this double Marathon Des Sables Challenge to hopefully inspire others as to what is possible. The ‘I Can And I Will’ Spirit.”
Gavin hopes to raise thousands of pounds over the course of his challenge, which will be evenly divided between three charities. These are Fisher House, QEHB’s Charity’s ‘home away from home’ for military patients and their families, as well as Blesma and the Team Margot Foundation.
Mike Hammond, Chief Executive at QEHB Charity, said: “Gavin is an incredible fundraiser. The charity team is in total awe of his motivation and passion for these worthy causes. On behalf of QEHB Charity, I want to thank Gavin for his hard work thus far, and wish him the very best of luck; we hope you make that world first!”
To find out more about Gavin’s fundraising or make a donation, click here.
For more information about Fisher House, please go to www.fisherhouseuk.org
