Blog. Fly on the Run, Challenge Completed

Roughly this time last year you may remember reading about top Hospitality Action supporter Will "Fly" Palmer who, to celebrate his 40th birthday, decided to undertake a whopping 40 marathons in 365 days in aid of Hospitality Action. Will heroically finished his mammoth fundraising challenge just a few days ago, raising over £15,000 along the way. We spoke to Will upon completing his 40th marathon over the past weekend to learn more.

How have you found the past 12 months?

Challenging to say the least. It has been an incredible journey and a real privilege to have been able to do something I enjoy and something that focuses the mind while raising money for such a good cause at the same time.

Any particular highs, or lows, over your 40 marathons?

The year has been full of ups and downs. I was naïve to ever think otherwise I guess. Getting the prognosis from my surgeon that I had a bad tear in my meniscus after marathon 8 and that I had a 50% chance of ever running properly again but no chance of completing the 40 marathons was the lowest. Getting back to running again (albeit very slowly) was a great feeling and when I realised I could potentially chase down the 40 in the last few weeks it was hugely satisfying after all the layoff and adrenaline took over. I never thought I could do 2 marathons in a row let alone 5. That was an extraordinary feeling. There were so many highs from meeting other runners, to travelling around the country to finding oneself alone in the middle of a field, wet and cold when you realise it's just your breath and heart and legs and that's it and the simple joy of that rare feeling is pretty unique. But the greatest high has to be hearing that I have been an inspiration to others and getting as many donations as I did.

Do you have any tips for others keen to undertake their own personal fundraising challenge?

Push your boundaries and make your challenge harder than you think you are capable of. You will find out so much more about yourself. Get out of your comfort zone and keep hustling. Never give up. The human spirit is so strong when it needs to be and you'll be amazed what you can accomplish.

Now that the challenge is behind you, what do you have planned for the future?

50 marathons in 50 cities for my 50th year. Now that is going to take some planning!

Heartfelt thanks to Will for his truly phenomenal fundraising, we are in awe. It isn't too late to sponsor Will and you can do so here. And if Will's story has inspired you to take on a challenge of your own our virtual 'Back in Business Tour' is now officially open for entries.