EXPLORER and Exmoor resident Sir Ranulph Fiennes is to embark on a monumental challenge this year when he takes part in a gruelling run across the Sahara desert in an attempt to become the oldest Briton ever to complete the Marathon des Sables.
Sir Ranulph, who will be 71 in March, will be running in aid of Marie Curie in order to raise £2.5 million.
The explorer is of course no stranger to physical challenges and is the holder of several endurance records – having set out on an expedition to the Antarctica, The Coldest Journey, at the age of 69 – despite suffering two heart attacks, undergoing a double heart bypass, a cancer operation and an on-going fight with diabetes.
The marathon takes place in April this year across the Western Sahara and is a demanding six day ‘ultra-marathon’ of 251 kilometres (156 miles) in over 50 °C heat.
Sir Ranulph said: “It’s going to be a challenge, but I’ve been assured my heart is mechanically up to it. “The next three months are going to be full on with intense training. I can’t wait to get out there.”
To donate to Sir Ranulph’s challenge visit www.justgiving.com/ranul ph or text RUN to 70007 to donate £5 plus a message of support to Sir Ranulph.
To follow Sir Ranulph’s challenge visit www.mariecurie.org.uk/ra nulph
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