A FITNESS fanatic is hoping to break a world record while raising funds for Marie Curie at this year’s London Marathon.
Max Naughton, who lives in Solihull, will be taking to the capital’s streets on April 28 in memory of his mum who spent her last days at the Marsh Lane hospice.
The 36-year-old will be completing the 26.2mile course fully dressed as a snowboarder including jacket, trousers, snowboard boots, helmet, goggles and he will carry the board while making his way through London in a bid to get a world record.
The current record of five-hours 46minutes and 37seconds was set at the 2016 London Marathon.
Max said: “I was looking for a good record/achievement to take on and being a keen snowboarder and having all the gear it sounded like a good idea at the time.
“Two reasons behind this, firstly to raise awareness for Marie Curie and raise as much money as possible and secondly if I’m honest its always been a boyhood dream to hold a world record.
“Plus it’s something to show my daughter when she’s older.”
Max started running when he was 30 and over the years he said he has built up the distances and has ran several marathons, including London, and a few ultra-marathons – which can be upward of 31miles.
He said his biggest running achievement was a 69 mile (2.5 marathon) distance race from Carlisle to Newcastle a couple of years ago.
Each year Max said he does one fundraiser run each year and has raised funds for Cancer Research UK but because after spending time at the hospice with his mum in 2016 who lost her brave battle to breast cancer he has chosen to support Marie Curie.
Max is hoping to raise £2,000 for the hospice and so far has raised around £600.
Max said training is going well however he has yet to don his full snowboarding kit but will be taking to the streets in full kit soon.
He added: “Having ran London before I’m familiar with the event and the highlight must be the crowd and atmosphere which is second to none.
“The streets are lined with supports and well-wishers all along the 26.2 mile course cheering you on.
“The last couple of years have been rather hot which I will definitely struggle in with all the gear.
“Let’s hope for a cool Sunday in April.”
For more or to donate visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/max-vmlm2019
