The Hardest Geezer's record-breaking run across Africa over 351 days!

Russ Cook is a living legend who completed a historical run across the African Continent over 351 days. 

This maverick has made the history books for a brave and inspiring run known as #ProjectAfrica. Raising a whopping R13,5 million (£ 574 000) for charity, running 16, 250 kilometres and 385 marathons across 16 countries, Russ’ endeavour has taken the world by storm.

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He is allegedly the first person to run the entire length of Africa. As Russ says it best, “mission complete.”

Check out this viral sensation who made his dreams a reality in our continent:

Here is some backstory surrounding this journey of a lifetime: 

• The very beginning: 

On 22 April 2023, Russ took the first steps of his monumental challenge from our coastal South African village of L'Agulhas. This is Africa's southern tip. 
This venture is something he spent years planning, preparing and training for. After making his way through SA, he runs through Africa's west coast of Namibia, Angola, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Republic of Congo, Cameroon, Nigeria, Benin, Togo, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Guinea, Senegal, Mauritania and Algeria.

• A criminal incident:

In an unforeseen turn of events, Russ was robbed at gunpoint on day 64. Russ and the team had their passports, money, phones and equipment stolen. This incident transpired in Angola, fortunately, no one was hurt and the team continued their trip with the help of a police escort. 

• Food poisoning did not stop him: 
  

One can only imagine the immense toll running for a year can have on a person. Russ could not shake a mystery illness during some of the journey. He also had to run despite struggling with food poisoning on multiple occasions and the flu. 
The resolute effort shown by Russ is a testament to his commitment to making an impact through his athleticism.

• A nasty back injury:
  

"Someone has swapped my hip flexors for cheese strings,” shared Russ. 
On day 266, the Hardest Geezer hit a breaking point. Despite several back issues and a foot problem, Russ pushed through. 

• A sandstorm and a VISA issue:

Travelling through many African countries is undoubtedly a challenge, especially when you have a team of experts accompanying you. Russ was able to use the power of social media to ask for help getting into Algeria. 

When the road to Africa ended, Russ hit the Sahara. Although he felt as though he was “in a state of pain,” the finish line was in sight. Greeted by sand and snowstorms in the deserts of Algeria, Russ took safe precautions but when the opportunity was there, he wore swimming goggles to aid in getting inches closer to the finish line.

• The very victorious end:
  

For months, Russ has been dreaming of devouring a strawberry daiquiri on a beach in Tunisia. Tears were shed when Russ reached the northern point in Africa and was reunited with friends and family. 

Stay tuned for more. We will bring you the latest at East Coast Radio. 

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Image courtesy of X (Twitter)