Man set to become first person in history to run entire length of Africa this weekend
Topics: UK News, World News, Viral
Callum Jones
Featured Image Credit: X/@hardestgeezer
Topics: UK News, World News, Viral
A British man is set to become the first person in history to run the entire length of Africa this weekend.
Russell Cook set off on an incredible mission in April last year, with much of social media captivated on his journey ever since.
After beginning his journey at the most southerly point in South Africa, Cook has made his way through the likes of Namibia, Angola and the Republic of Congo.
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The Brit set upon completing 360 marathons in 240 days and successfully run across the length of Africa.
Cook has regularly updated his followers with vides and posts documenting his incredible journey, including running into a few obstacles along the way.
Earlier this year, the runner told followers he had a 'bit of a problem', explaining he and his team hadn't been able to get visas for Algeria.
"If we don’t get them, then it’s game over for project Africa," Cook wrote on X.
"[I've] raised over £140k for charity in my attempt to become the first person ever to run the entire length of Africa. But right now all of that is totally hanging on whether we can get permission from Algeria to let us cross in through this border with Mauritania," he continued.
The Brit ultimately appealed to residents of Algeria for help with his request.
"Anything you need from us please let me know. It would be an absolute privilege to visit your beautiful country," he added.
"To everyone following the journey online please help us out by sharing this and helping us get this seen by the appropriate people in Algeria. Thank you for the support guys we need it now more than ever."
Thankfully, Cook was able to continue his journey.
Cook's journey has also involved running through the 'most dangerous country', which led to him receiving 'more warnings about safety than any other country on the route'.
Thankfully, the runner did get through Nigeria in one piece though, despite the high levels of kidnapping, violent crime, and inter-communal violence.
Cook is set to complete his long challenge on Sunday (7 April), with British punk band Soft Play performing at the finish line.
The party will take place at a hotel in Bizerte, Tunisia.
"Get your daiquiris ready girls and boys. This is going to be mega," the runner penned on X.
"Cannot quite believe it but we've managed to pull off Soft Play playing the finish line party in Tunisia. Anyone that can get themselves there is welcome," he added.