With 16 marathons under his belt already, Frodsham man Gareth Boyd could be forgiven for never wanting to pull his running shoes on again.
But the 42-year-old, of Blue Hatch, has opted for quite the opposite.
No longer content with 26 mile jaunts, he has undertaken a year-long challenge which has already seen him complete several ultramarathons, which are runs greater than the traditional length, in aid of children’s charity Brainwave.
The director at Warrington-based Adele Carr Financial Recruitment took on the Gin Pit Double Marathon in March, the Apocalypse 50 and the Rock ‘n’ Roll Liverpool Marathon in May, the Sandstone Trail and a 210 mile cycle challenge in June.
Still to come are the Plusnet Yorkshire Marathon and Ring O’ Fire - a 135 mile route which circumnavigates Anglesey over three consecutive days.
Gareth, a member of Helsby Running Club and a core member of the Delamere parkrun team, says he’s always liked being active.
“As a member of Helsby Running Club and a core member of the Delamere parkrun team , I regularly take part in local 5K, 10K and half marathon races, together with a few marathons each year.
“I love them – they are great fun, and you get to meet great people and see amazing places. Last year I ran Palma Marathon for example.”
Asked why he’s taking on such an extreme challenge, he said ‘why not’.
“So many people do amazing things - I thought I’d like a go at something bigger and better. I completed the 33 mile Sandstone Trail twice - a great local event and really enjoyed the 50 mile ultra event in May.”
Gareth supports a different charity each year and, in the last seven years alone, has raised more than £10,000.
Adele Carr is supporting this charity this year, so it made sense to support them as well. Each year I aim to support a different charity….I think to date (in the last 6-7 years alone), I’ve raised over £10,000.
To sponsor Gareth, visit uk.virginmoneygiving.com/BoydCrazyUltraYear2014 .