Northern Ireland

Armagh man Stevie begins 60 marathons in 60 days

Armagh man Stevey McGeown (37) is running 60 marathons over 60 days across Ireland to raise money for charity. Picture by Bill Smyth
Armagh man Stevey McGeown (37) is running 60 marathons over 60 days across Ireland to raise money for charity. Picture by Bill Smyth Armagh man Stevey McGeown (37) is running 60 marathons over 60 days across Ireland to raise money for charity. Picture by Bill Smyth

AN Armagh man has begun a mammoth challenge of running 60 marathons in 60 days across Ireland.

Stevey McGeown (37), who lives outside Armagh but is originally from Ballymacnab, set off from his home on Wednesday and is hoping to raise £300,000 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.

Yesterday Stevey ran from Downpatrick to Stormont, as he covers almost 40 miles - or what is called an ultra marathon - each day.

At the end of his exploits the father-of-three will have travelled across all 32 counties before returning home on July 30.

The challenge however pales in comparison to his achievement last year when he completed 100 marathons in 100 days for the Laura Maguire Foundation.

His wife Catherine McGeown said the unexpected heat has provided an extra challenge.

"His legs are fine, it is just the heat and keeping himself hydrated, but he will get there, no doubt about it he will do this. He's an ordinary man taking on an extraordinary challenge."

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

"If you fancy coming out for a wee bit of a run it would be great to see you. All the support makes a big difference, it really, really does help," he said.

Today Stevey will run from Stormont to Aldergrove.

For more information and to donate see steveysepicadventure.com, or text Buddy to 50300 to donate €2.