News Update

September 2009

Greg Iz Real Support for Eddie
Comedian Eddie Izzard who is undertaking a 1,100 mile charity run around Britain in aid of Sport Relief had some expert help and advice from Professor Greg Whyte, Optima Life's Technical Director, as he set about preparing himself for this 'bonkers' personal challenge.

The 47year old comedian, more used to life on stage and tv than running on tough country roads had absolutely no experience of long distance running but has surprised fitness expert Greg with his gritty determination. He said:

'Eddie's challenge is truly awesome - 1100 miles in 7 weeks equates to more than a marathon every day for 50 days. 50 marathons for a man with no running experience puts Eddie in the elite of ultra-endurance runners.'

Setting off from London at the end of July, Eddie planned to cover Cardiff, Belfast and Edinburgh taking in as many towns and cities as possible en route back to the capital. He has a small support team following him who are helping to hold him together as he heads south for the finishing line.While the going has been gruelling, the man from Aden in Yemen is determined to make it.
'Eddie is a great guy who has dedicated himself to the challenge like a true professional. He is an inspiration to us all - anything is possible with hard work, dedication and the right team', said Greg

Greg, who is Professor of Applied Sport and Exercise Science at Liverpool John Moores University has already helped a number of celebrities to raise money for Comic Relief and Sport Relief. These include David Walliams with his epic cross Channel swim, Alan Shearer and Adrian Chiles in their 335 mile UK bike ride from Newcastle to London and the all-star team who climbed Mount Kilimanjaro and included Cheryl Cole, Chris Moyles and Ronan Keating in their line up.