Ultra runner covers 105 miles at Footes Lane after marathon cancellation
An exhausted ultra marathon runner has completed more than 100 miles in 24 hours to raise money for charity.
When Drew Jonkmans crossed the finish line at Footes Lane at 1pm yesterday, he said he was absolutely knackered.
‘I can’t wait to get home,’ he said.
He aimed to cover 100 miles in 402 laps and defeated this by covering 105.25 miles in 421 laps overnight, with some family and friends joining him at intervals.
Having originally trained for the four-day 120km HMDS Marathon in Egypt, he was devastated to learn it was cancelled three days before he was due to travel because of the ongoing Israel/Hamas conflict.
He dreamt up the Footes Lane run instead, and decided to keep raising money for charity Guernsey Mind.
He said it had been a tough challenge.
‘I’m absolutely knackered, but I’m very happy I hit the minimum goal,’ said Mr Jonkmans.
‘It rained a lot and it was sideways rain. It was quite cold at times,’ he said.
He said he was looking forward to a nice hot bath and bed once he got home.
Amanda Hibbs, of Guernsey Mind, said the charity was extremely grateful for what he had done.
'That must take some immense physical and mental strength,' she said.
Guernsey Mind is a mental health charity that aims to support islanders and encourage a positive attitude, as well as supporting mental wellbeing.
All its funds are used locally using the Mind UK Federation Network’s resources and expertise.
Mr Jonkmans raised about £3,800 for the charity – defeating his £2,500 target.
He started running ultra marathons following a drunken bar bet.
He had trained around his job as a fund accountant with four to five running sessions and two to three strength training sessions and had postponed this year’s entry to November 2024.
He is also taking part in the full 240km Marathon des Sables in Morocco, which is due to take place in April 2024 for six days.
Family and friends supported him through most of the run, but he was left on his own for one to two hours early Monday morning.
During this time he fuelled himself with banana loaf, roast potatoes and protein bars.
He thanked Network Insurance for covering the insurance policy to be able to run at Footes Lane and for sponsoring him.
