A REDDITCH man is soon to set off on an extraordinary 350‑mile ultra-running challenge from Malin Head to Mizen Head – one of Ireland’s toughest endurance routes – all to raise £50,000 for children with life‑threatening illnesses.
Samuel Attwell will spend 10 consecutive days covering vast stretches of rural Ireland, battling harsh weather, fatigue and unforgiving terrain.
His mission is to support Molly Ollys, a charity he represents as an ambassador, which helps grant wishes and provides vital emotional support to seriously ill children and their families.
Samuel said: “I know how quickly life can change. That’s why I’m doing this.”
Samuel’s determination is deeply rooted in personal loss. Having lost his grandmother to cancer and then, devastatingly, his best friend who passed away at just 18 years old, these experiences ignited a drive in him that went far beyond sport.
He added: “When you lose the people you love far too soon, it changes you.
“It makes you realise how precious time is – especially for children who don’t get the chance to grow up.
“Running across Ireland is nothing compared to what these families face every day.
“If my miles can bring smiles, strength, or support to even one child, then every step will be worth it.”
From May 18, Samuel will embark on a journey from the northernmost tip of Ireland to its southernmost point, completing the route on May 27.
If successful, Samuel will join a very small and elite group and at just 21, become one of the youngest solo runners ever to complete the route.
Samuel plans to make the challenge highly visible, sharing daily video updates, GPS maps and live progress, training insights, milestones and setbacks and honest unfiltered footage.
His goal is to ignite momentum, inspire others, and make this challenge truly go viral.
“£50,000 isn’t just a target, it’s the difference we can make to the lives of so many poorly children.
“If I reach my fundraising target, then that money will deliver up to 100 wishes, provide more than 2,500 therapeutic toys and books and support vital projects in children’s hospitals.
“Molly Ollys stands beside families at the toughest moments of their lives and every pound raised strengthens that support.”
Samuel has already secured over £12,000 in early sponsorship from businesses connected to his family, support that means everything as he prepares for this immense challenge.
Visit: justgiving.com/page/samrunsireland to donate.
