Leamington father and son’s epic 22-hour challenge

The annual ultra event, which began at 5am on Saturday June 28, is an extreme distance endurance fell race.

Attracting participants from all across Europe, the tough course is a loop over the ten highest mountains in England, with stats of 5,600m of ascent over 76km.

Robert Semple, 45, of Cubbington Road, and his son Callum, 14, completed the challenge in 22 hours, and both received medals for their achievement.

They finished at 3am on Sunday, having run 55 miles, in what Mr Semple has described as an “epic race”, feeling “pained, cold, wet and hungry, but overjoyed.”

They have so far raised about £400 for Macmillan Cancer Support.

Mr Semple said: “The race has a 24-hour cut-off, and three years ago, nobody finished. I competed two years ago, coming 14th, but this year I was accompanied by my son.”

Callum, who is a member of the Leamington Army Cadets, was not entered into the race due to insurance purposes, but he was able to accompany his father. Mr Semple added: “I am so very proud; he showed true grit and determination. My race was about managing him, so that he would see the finish, and he showed unequalled resolve.”

To sponsor Robert, visit his Just Giving page here.