Running 40 marathons in 40 European countries solo

In this episode, hosts Rick Pearson and Ben Hobson interview Angus Rude, who completed the remarkable challenge of running a marathon in each of 40 European countries over four months. Angus shares that while he completed his final marathon in London, the journey started in Moldova under challenging conditions. He discusses how his body adapted to the demands of running multiple marathons, sharing experiences of sore legs but also impressive endurance.

Angus's motivation for this endeavor was not just personal achievement but also to raise funds for Cancer Research UK in memory of his aunt who passed away from breast cancer. Throughout his journey, Angus faced logistical challenges, managing travel and marathon routes across diverse countries while meeting new friends and fellow runners.

Among the notable experiences, Angus mentions running along the stunning coastline from Nice to Monaco and discovering hidden gems like Tallinn, Estonia. Despite some discomfort, he enjoyed indulgent meals in different countries like Greece and Italy, which contributed to his recovery between runs. He reflects on the kindness and support from locals and fellow travelers, as well as on the lessons learned about the commonalities shared across Europe.

However, the episode takes a turn when Angus recounts a difficult experience after finishing his final marathon, leading to a visit to A&E due to severe fatigue and dehydration. This incident highlights the toll his rigorous challenge took on him. Looking ahead, Angus aspires to work in sport and hopes to leverage his experiences into a career in the sports industry. The episode wraps up with a note of appreciation for Angus's resilience and achievements.