Russell Cook, an Englishman from West Sussex, had set himself the target of running 360 marathons in 240 days across Africa. The aim of this titanic challenge is to raise funds for The Running Charity. Unfortunately, this ambitious project is hampered by visa problems, health concerns and geopolitical issues.
A journey fraught with pitfalls and a race against time
After starting his journey on April 22 at the southernmost point of South Africa, Russell Cook has already covered almost 12,000 km through 13 different countries. However, after 278 days on the African roads, he has come up against difficulties in obtaining a visa in order to continue its journey, in particular to cross the border between Mauritania and Algeria.
- Initially : The challenge was to cover 9,320 miles and cross 16 borders.
- Now : The route was extended due to visa complications, health problems, geopolitical issues and an incident in Angola.
A reprieve granted by the Algerian embassy and the support of British MPs
Recently, Russell Cook announced that he had finally obtained the precious sesame to continue his challenge. The Algerian embassy has granted him a multi-entry visa to cross Algeria via Tindouf province. There are still more than 4,000 km to go before the end of the project, christened Project Africa. A final date will be announced shortly.
This positive outcome is due in particular to the support of two British Conservative MPs, Tim Loughton And Alexander Staffordwho questioned the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Algerian ambassador and the Algerian embassy about Russell Cook's visa problems.
As the Chair of the Parliamentary Group for Algeria I have written to the Algerian Ambassador to the UK asking him to help grant a visa for @hardestgeezer to run through Algeria. Russ' journey has been an inspiration to many & has raised huge amounts for a great cause. pic.twitter.com/wvYomyMsSO
- Alexander Stafford (@Alex_Stafford) January 24, 2024
In addition to administrative complications, Russell Cook also has to deal with health risks and his safety in the extreme conditions of this challenge. During his journey, he has already been the victim of an assault in Angola, underlining the dangers he faces in certain countries.
Despite these difficulties, Cook can count on the unconditional support of his loved ones, sponsors and contributors, managing to raise almost £143,000 for his charity.
Russell Cook's challenge in figures
- 360 : The number of marathons planned for the challenge
- 240 : The days initially planned for this challenge
- 278 : The number of days already spent on the road since the start of the adventure
- 13 : The number of countries crossed so far
- £142 659 : Funds raised for The Running Charity
A message of hope and inspiration for all
Beyond the personal and sporting challenges, Russell Cook's adventure is a message of hope and commitment. His courage, perseverance and altruism are a source of inspiration for all those who wish to contribute to improving the world around them.
In the face of life's ups and downs, such as visa and health problems, he shows that nothing is impossible with determination and support.
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