An Armagh man and his long-time friend are preparing to complete a gruelling 40 half-marathons in 40 days challenge this Saturday, October 3, at Craigavon Lakes.
Glenn Chapman and Jason Wilson began the fundraising effort in August. When they cross the finish line at Craigavon Lakes, they will have covered 840 kilometres in memory of two family members who died by suicide.
Final five runs remain
In an update provided on Tuesday, September 29, the pair said they had completed 35 consecutive half-marathon-distance runs, leaving five runs in the final week before reaching their target.
“As of today, we’ve completed 35 consecutive half-marathon-distance runs and are now into the final week. Just five runs remain until we reach our goal of 40!”
The challenge has included what they described as plenty of ups, downs and injuries, while support from family, friends, donors and people who joined them for runs has helped them continue.
“It’s unbelievable to have come this far. There have been plenty of ups, downs and injuries along the way, but the support we’ve received has kept us going. A huge thank you to everyone who has donated, joined us for a run, sent words of encouragement, or helped keep us motivated-especially our families and friends!”
Fundraising for The Lighthouse Charity
The pair are raising money for The Lighthouse Charity, which supports construction workers and their families. They are also using the challenge to encourage open conversations about how people are really feeling.
Mr Chapman, who turns 40 in October, lost his father, Philip Chapman, to suicide in July. Mr Wilson’s brother-in-law, Matthew Crawford, died by suicide in 2022.
The effort had raised almost £7,000 by the time of the update, exceeding the pair’s original £5,000 target by almost £2,000.
How to support the finish
Supporters are invited to meet the pair at the main entrance to the Leisure Centre at Craigavon Lakes for 10am on Saturday, where they will start the final run.
People can join them for any distance or attend simply to show their support. Donations can also be made through the pair’s JustGiving page.
“We’d love to see as many people there as possible to help us bring the challenge to a close together. You’re very welcome to join us and run any distance you wish, or simply come along to show your support.”