A DEDICATED marathon man is planning to run his 66th marathon – and another one two weeks later.
Terry Rivers, 63, who starts every Sunday with a 22-mile run, is planning his 18th London marathon on April 26.
Grandfather Mr Rivers, of Harvey Street, Halstead, wants to beat last year’s time of just over three-and-a-half hours.
Not only is the regular runner tackling the 26-mile London course, for St Helena Hospice, but he also hopes to be able to run in the 30-mile Halstead and Essex Ultra Marathon two weeks later.
Mr Rivers, who has been running for the last 19 years, trains hard six days a week.
He said: “I joined the local gym and got the running bug and kind of ventured on from there. People think I’m mad as I always do a 22-mile run on a Sunday morning and then spend time with my grandchildren. It doesn’t get any easier as you get older, you don’t get any quicker.”
Mr Rivers is to run on his own and likes to keep his own pace.
He added: “There is nothing worse than going off too quickly, come 20 miles you start to flag.”
The Halstead bricklayer usually raises up to £1,500 for St Helena Hospice and Halstead Hospital.
He said: “They do rely on voluntary contributions to get by on. I am grateful to the dedicated people who sponsor me year in and year out.”
Anyone who would like to sponsor Mr Rivers can call him on 01787 477873.
:: Story by Katherine Winch-Furness
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