St Neots ‘couch potato’ to take on running challenges for charity

A man who admits he would rather watch the London Marathon from the comfort of his sofa than take part in the event is turning “superhero” after agreeing to run a total of 150km for a cancer charity.

Phil Adams, 32, is running two 10ks, two half marathons, and the London Marathon, to raise money for the Children with Cancer UK charity, which is based at Great Ormond Street Hospital. The charity is appealing for people to become “superheroes” and raise money for sick children.

Mr Adams, a health and safety consultant, was inspired by friends to run the London Marathon, but says it will be a huge challenge as he has never done any serious running and never been a member of a gym.

“I’m more of a sofa spectator - a ‘couch potato’ - so I’m going from couch to 26.2 miles,” he told The Hunts Post.

“I’m attempting to raise £2,000, which is no small feat for me, and to show my commitment to the charity and to hit my target; I’m embarking on a 150km challenge.”

Mr Adams will be running two 10k events, the first at Knebworth on February 15, and the second at Cambourne a few weeks later, he will then run two half marathons, at Brands Hatch and at Silverstone, before completing the London Marathon on April 26.

“All of that takes me to just 146.5km, so the Saturday following the marathon I will complete the Huntingdon Parkrun at Hinchingbrooke Park to take me across the line,” he added.

“The Brands Hatch event will be a real test as there are lots of hills, but I have been training four or five times a week and I hope I will be okay. The real motivation is the charity and that’s what drives me.

“What have I got to complain about compared to children who are so sick?” INFORMATION: If you want to sponsor Mr Adams, go to uk.virgin moneygiving.com/PhilAdams82. Alternatively, text CWCP82 to 70070 and your amount, £1, £3, £5, or whatever you can afford.