Seaford man Michael Treacy successfully completed the Icelandic Ultra-marathon – a 74km trek over two days, along the volcanic Icelandic Laugavegupinn trail, which took place on 28th and 29th August 2017.
Mike suffered a knee injury on the second day and was advised by the doctors to discontinue the challenge and go to hospital. Mike however, had other ideas –
“I didn’t want to let anyone down, so I strapped my leg up and carried on.
This challenge was the hardest thing I have ever done, not just physically but mentally as well. When you’re trekking up and down mountains the same height as Ben Nevis, with the wind howling and the rain going sideways, so much of you just wants to give up and get warm. But I was determined to finish and make everyone who sponsored me proud. It was down to my friends helping me that I managed to finish. It was quite humbling.
Two of my younger cousins have Down’s Syndrome so it is a disability close to my heart. I wanted to raise money for The Seaford Down’s Syndrome and Special Needs Support Group as they so tirelessly provide hope and support for children with special needs.
Without charities like this one, so many people would never receive the help they need. I am so grateful to everyone who has stood by me, supported me and helped me through this insane challenge, particularly the regulars at my parents’ pub, The White Lion Hotel, and the Newbury Tully Estate Agents who generously sponsored me to achieve my goal.”
Mike completed the challenge to a round of applause from the 58 other marathonners who joined him on the trek, raising nearly £3,000 for our charity.
Mike joined us at our October Drop-in to present us a cheque for nearly £3,000
Thank you Mike!