A Derby man is preparing to celebrate his 60th birthday by running 100 miles in 24 hours – with a friend in hot pursuit on a vintage Raleigh Chopper bike.
Phil Mason will take on the mammoth challenge on June 19, running from Preston Brook, near Warrington, to Derby city centre along the Trent & Mersey Canal.
After Phil has completed 50 miles – or after 12 hours have passed, whichever comes first – Dean Jackson MBE will set off from the start line on an original 1970s Raleigh Chopper and attempt to catch him before the finish line.
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The pair have dubbed the event the Chopper Canal Chase, with supporters being encouraged to choose sides and back either the runner or the rider.
While Phil faces blisters, exhaustion and the challenge of running for an entire day, Dean, who is the boss of Derby sports clothing brand HUUB, has his own battle ahead: covering 100 miles on a bike famous for its banana seat, high handlebars and unsuitability for endurance sport.
The challenge is raising money for both St Giles Hospice, in Lichfield, and YMCA Derbyshire, two charities that provide vital support to people across the region.
St Giles Hospice offers care for people living with terminal illness and support for their families, while YMCA Derbyshire works with vulnerable young people and those facing homelessness.
Dean, who recently ran the London Marathon to raise money for the YMCA, said: “Most people celebrate a milestone birthday with a meal out or a weekend away – but Phil has decided to run 100 miles. In a moment of madness, I decided to chase him on a Raleigh Chopper, although I don’t know which of us made the worse decision.
“This isn’t just a test of endurance – it’s a battle of determination. Phil will be running through the day and night, while I’ll be trying to close the gap on a bike that wasn’t designed for this sort of punishment.
“There will be sore legs, aching backs, very little sleep and probably a few moments where we both question what we are doing. But we’re determined to see it through and raise as much money as possible along the way.
“Whether you’re Team Runner or Team Rider, the real winners will be the people supported by YMCA Derbyshire and St Giles Hospice. Every donation helps make a difference.”
The pair will travel the entire 100-mile route along the canal network before finishing in Derby, where supporters are expected to gather to welcome them home.
Phil added: “This will be a difficult challenge but not as difficult as the challenges that face the patients and their families at St Giles Hospice.”“
To find out more about the challenge, track progress or make a donation visit the Chopper Canal Chase website.
