Mike’s 100 mile journey for Demelza

Heathfield Road Runner’s Mike Churchyard has completed one of the UK’s toughest endurance events and in the process is close to reaching his £1,000 fundraising for children’s hospice Demelza.

After being told in 2012 he shouldn’t run more than five miles after having an ankle operation, he looked to set himself a goal to help focus his rehabilitation and chose to run the Lakeland 100 for Demelza.

The challenge, which boasts an average dropout rate of 60%, encompasses a circular route taking in the whole of the Lakeland fells and covers a distance of 105 miles. It includes 23,000ft of ascent and descent and consists almost entirely of public bridleways and footpaths.

The route starts in Coniston and heads south before completing a clockwise loop taking in the Dunnerdale fells, Eskdale, Wasdale and Buttermere before arriving in Keswick. From here the route heads to Matterdale and continues over to Haweswater before returning via Kentmere, Ambleside and Elterwater to the finish at Coniston.

Mike was amongst just 200 competitors to complete the event this year, each having to carry a backpack with supplies, self-navigating their way within the 40 hour time limit to complete the course. The race started at 6pm Friday 24th July and saw competitors running through two nights non-stop and without sleep.

Remarkably, only 682 competitors have ever finished the Lakeland 100 since the race started eight years ago.

Commenting on his achievement, Mike said: “I have had my sights set on this race for several years now and I am absolutely delighted to have completed this on my first attempt, a completely overwhelming and magnificent adventure as well as a massive personal achievement.”

“I want to pay particular thanks to Heathfield Road Runners, Higher Nature – natural vitamins & health produscts, Gover Gym & Printstation along with everyone else for their huge support in assisting with my preparation and success.”

Demelza Hospice Care for Children cares for life limited children and their families, offering respite breaks, end of life care and bereavement support at their hospices in South London and Kent and through its hospice at home service in East Sussex. Find out more at www.demelza.org.uk.

You can still donate to Mike’s JustGiving page via www.justgiving.com/Michael-Churchyard

Congratulations on your achievement Mike!