A runner is preparing to take on the toughest challenge of his life by running 10 marathons in as many days.
When most competitors line up for the start of the Windermere Marathon, in the Lake District, on Sunday, May 19, Craig Johnson, will have already completed the undulating lakeside course nine times.
The 39-year-old IT manager, from Coalville, already has eight marathons under his belt – including two Leicester and two London events, as well as one New York.
"The Windermere Marathon route is considered to be one of the country's toughest courses, making the 10 in 10 a true test of mettle and depth of character," said Craig.
"I'm under no illusions whatsoever– it's going to be without doubt the most challenging 10 days of my life."
Craig is one of 16 intrepid people taking on the challenge for Brathay Trust youth charity.
He said: "The Class of 2013, as our group has become known, will join an illustrious collection of 59 other individuals to have completed the ultra distance endurance event."
Craig is more than half way towards his £5,000 fund-raising target, having collected £2,789 through donations from colleagues at Westleigh Developments, in Whetstone, charity quizzes, an auction and raffles.
He said: "The Brathay Trust does excellent work supporting underprivileged and disadvantaged kids and young adults.
"I'm fortunate enough to have no real worries in my life and I'm blessed to have two wonderful children.
"But there are those who haven't been provided with opportunities in their early years."
Every penny raised will go to the trust, which organises outdoor pursuits, training and team-building activities for young people, outside education and employment
Trust spokesman Mark Bushell said: "It's probably the toughest physical challenge Craig will face in his life.
"It takes a certain type of person to take on this kind of event and we believe he's got what it takes, not just physically but mentally."
Craig took up running in 2005.
"I played rugby but that came to an end due to a collar bone injury," he said.
"When I started running, I weighed 18 stone. Now I'm under 14.
"I started off running one mile and that nearly killed me, so I've come a long way."
Craig is now running 50 miles a week and has returned from a training weekend at Brathay Hall, Cumbria.
"The next 16 weeks are going to be a roller-coaster ride," he said.
"I'm sure there will be good days and bad days, days when I question my own sanity and days when I feel invincible.
"But I have to keep level headed and not do anything silly that will jeopardise the main event in May."
Craig's wife Jayne said: "We think he is crazy, but very brave."
For details and to make a donation visit:
www.justgiving.com/ BigJohnson10in10
