A MULTIPLE-marathon man is celebrating after his seven-in-seven challenge earned his chosen charity thousands of pounds.
Barnard Castle School PE teacher and semi-professional rugby player Chris McTurk completed a marathon a day for a week despite carrying an injury from half way through his challenge.
The winger with Darlington Mowden Park was delighted to raise £4,717, well more than his £2,500 target, which will help The Three Bears Foundation fund medical research and support families affected by pancreatic cancer.
The 29-year-old ran and walked the 182 miles in between his teaching commitments, completing a half marathon before school and another afterwards during the week, and a full marathon on the first and last days of the week-long challenge.
Pupils and staff members also joined him for portions of his challenge, offering moral support. He said: “I suspect I tore my meniscus midway through but managed to complete the runs thanks to the support I received from students, staff, friends and family. I went to school with Three Bears’ founder Chris Burn, whose mother tragically died from pancreatic cancer, so I couldn’t let them down.
“I’d also like to say a massive thank you to everyone who donated as this provided me with huge motivation knowing the proceeds make such a difference to people’s lives. The school and my club have also been brilliant in supporting me in my training and allowing me the time to do this.”
