Guernsey’s David Becker and Ed Partridge will be running a gruelling and dangerous 230kms of Amazonian Rainforest for the Jungle Ultra Marathon on 7 June 2020.
They will be fundraising for Guernsey Rural Occupational Workshop (GROW) who has recently launched an ambitious redevelopment plan.
The Jungle Ultra is one of several ‘beyond the ultimate’ multi-stage foot races that take place in beautiful but brutal environments around the world. The test of endurance begins at Manu National Park, Peru, and runs through the Andes Mountains to the Madre de Dios River.
The race is split into five stages of jungle, river crossings and mountain valleys where runners will endure heavy rain, deep mud and boiling conditions.
David Becker, who works as an audit partner at Deloitte, has previously completed several ultra-distance challenges including the Wye Valley Ultra, Pilgrim Challenge and Hadrian’s Wall.
David has always enjoyed running and over the last three years has completed a number of marathons including the London Marathon, Manchester Marathon and Marathon du Médoc.
David said: “I really enjoy challenging myself and having something to aim for. The Jungle Ultra is unlike any other race, not only due to the distance involved but also the unique environment.
“Of course, I am worried about the heat and dangerous wildlife, it’s a really tough race but it’s also a privilege to be able to experience the Amazon Rainforest.”
Ed Partridge, a doctor at Guernsey’s Healthcare Group, has also completed numerous ultra-distance events, his most notable being the Marathon des Sables in 2016.
Ed said: “The Jungle Ultra is something I have been interested in for a long time. I have finally bitten the bullet and it is going to be a fantastic challenge. I have always wanted to visit the Amazon so sleeping wild in it should be amazing.
“Aside from the race, I love GROW’s ethos and I have had several patients who have really benefited from their services. It is a privilege to support their ambitious projects in some small way.”
GROW provides development and support to individuals who are learning disabled, physically disabled or suffering from mental health issues. Individuals are given the opportunity of supported employment or attendance training in a safe and secure environmental workshop.
Fundraising efforts and sponsorship throughout the next six months will go towards GROW’s plans to improve existing buildings and greenhouses, a new fully equipped workshop and a hospitality training kitchen that will give workers the experience of handling money, customer service and using household kitchen equipment.
You can donate via the following link:
https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/jungleultramarathonforgrow
