What a treat
After 352 long hard days, the Hardest Geezer, real name Russ Cook, has finally completed his mission to run the entire length of Africa.
Following this massive achievement, Cook has done what any sane human would do – eat all of his favourite foods that he’s missed out on since being on the run.
The 27-year-old, who hails from Worthing in West Sussex, first set out on his mission to run the length of the continent last year.
He started at the southernmost point of Africa and has ran some 387 marathons on his journey to the finishing line at Ras Angela in Tunisia.
Covering a distance of more than 16,000 km, the runner traversed 16 different countries and ran the equivalent of more than a third of the planet’s circumference.
During his journey, Cook has come across many challenges, including being robbed at gunpoint, being kidnapped and facing visa troubles.
However, through all these challenges, he has made it to the finish line and solidified his place in history.
Following the massive achievement, the greatest honour has been bestowed on him.
'Sausage roll, cheeseburger, pizza, ice cream'@hardestgeezer didn't waste any time eating all his favourite food as soon as he landed back home following his amazing challenge running the length of Africa. pic.twitter.com/SCRIcdrv7b
— Good Morning Britain (@GMB) April 10, 2024
In a recent appearance on Good Morning Britain, the athlete was asked by host Ed Balls: “Important question, have you had your sausage roll yet?”
Cook responded: “Yep. Got straight off the plane yesterday; sausage roll, double cheeseburger, pizza, ice cream. All in one go.”
Ed added: “Are you done with sausage rolls? Are you up for another?”
Cook was then presented with something that we all wish for – a Greggs ‘Gold Collection’ box. The box featured a selection of best bits from the bakery, including, of course, sausage rolls.
Running the length of Africa is not the first time Cook has tried something crazy
He previously become the first person to run from Asia to London back in 2019.
Cook has also taken on other challenges such as completing a marathon while on crutches, and smashing the record for the quickest time completing a marathon while hauling a car, finishing the 26 miles in an impressive nine hours and 56 minutes.
At the time of writing, the Brit has raised over £870,000 for charity thanks to his efforts. The money will go to Sandblast, which is dedicated to empowering Saharawi in the UK, and The Running Charity, which helps homeless people and those with complex needs through the power of running.
If you would like to donate money to Cook’s fundraiser, you can do so here.
Related links:
Marathon runner disqualified for ‘chain smoking’ throughout entire race
Ultra-marathon runner banned for using car in 50-mile race
