Northern Ireland

Armagh man to run 60 marathons in 60 days for charity

Armagh man Stevey McGeown (37) is to run 60 marathons in 60 days across Ireland
Armagh man Stevey McGeown (37) is to run 60 marathons in 60 days across Ireland Armagh man Stevey McGeown (37) is to run 60 marathons in 60 days across Ireland

AN Armagh man is hoping to raise £300,000 for charity by running 60 marathons in 60 days across Ireland.

Stevey McGeown (37), who lives outside Armagh city but is originally from Ballymacnab, will undertake the challenge to raise funds for the Keith Duffy Foundation.

It has pledged to support three charities - Fighting Blindness, Buddy Bench Ireland and the Paddy Wallace Fund for Autism - with the proceeds of the runs.

Starting from his house in Armagh on June 1, Mr McGeown will travel across all 32 counties and cover almost 40 miles each day before returning home on July 30.

However, this summer's challenge pales in comparison to the father-of-three's exploits last year, when he completed 100 marathons in 100 days.

Mr McGeown told The Irish News: "Last year I did 100 marathons in 100 days for the Laura Maguire Foundation. Laura died when she was seven.

"A lot of the marathons last year happened in places like Phoenix Park in Dublin. We weren't in every city or town so this year is different."

It's all a long way from 2013, when Mr McGeown ran his very first marathon.

He said: "A lot of people remember their first marathon. In 2013 I ran my first marathon and it nearly killed me.

"It is amazing how the human body can adapt and especially when you think about what our ancestors achieved.

"Most people don't get the opportunity to test the body. I was gradually doing it every day and building up."

The Armagh man is also welcoming anyone who wishes to join in - in any way possible - as he makes his journey across Ireland.

He said: "People are welcome to come and join us. Even if you can't run, come out and sing a song, whatever."

:: For more information see steveysepicadventure.com.