A KEEN Worcester runner will test himself by taking on a tough challenge famed as forming part of the SAS selection process.
Ian Newell will tackle the Fan Dance today (Saturday) – a 24-kilometre route climbing the 2,907ft Pen y Fan mountain in Wales not once – but twice.
The route is usually marched, however Mr Newell plans to run the course – all to raise money for St Richard’s Hospice, which cared for a family member and friend.
The 42-year-old, who now lives in Droitwich, said: “I like to push myself out of my comfort zone and believe the body is so much more capable than we allow it to be.
“It’s the mindset that has to be right and then you can achieve anything, so when I saw this challenge I just knew I had to give it a go.”
The challenge will see him ascend the peak – the highest in south Wales – before descending and returning the same way.
“I’m running to raise money for St Richard’s Hospice as it provided the most amazing end of life care for my wife’s gran at her home and also for our friend at the hospice itself, both who sadly passed away last year,” he explained.
“I want other families to be able to receive the same free care that we did at the time when you most need it and that can only happen through donations and fundraising, so here I am.”
Mr Newell, who works as a bank manager, is hoping to raise £250 for the Worcester-based charity.
Jodi Brandwood, a fund-raiser at St Richard’s Hospice, said: “We think Ian’s challenge is absolutely incredible and wish him all the best for this weekend.
“It is only thanks to the dedication of people like Ian who take on challenges and raise money that we are able to continue caring for patients and their loved ones across the county.”
Visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ian-newell5 for more.
