Russ Cook, commonly known as “Hardest Geezer,” is set to complete an incredible feat: running the whole length of Africa.
This audacious journey, named Project Africa, will make him the first person to accomplish such a walk. Cook’s adventure began on April 22, 2023, at the southern tip of South Africa and is expected to end on April 7th in Bizerte, Tunisia. Project Africa is a massive project, spanning approximately 9,000 kilometers and taking him across 16 African countries. He tweeted yesterday that he was about to finish his continent-spanning marathon in five days.
“5 days to go. The last 347 days running through Africa have no doubt been the toughest of my life, but such an immense honor,” he tweeted.
According to the BBC, Cook had originally planned to run 360 marathons in 240 days. After visa challenges, health concerns, geopolitical issues, and an armed robbery, he was forced to adjust his route, extending the challenge.
A friend kindled Cook’s enthusiasm for intense running. Since then, he’s taken on challenges like running across Asia and even a beer-fueled marathon. Cook’s Project Africa is about more than simply the distance; he is also raising money for charity. The challenge is in support of The Running Charity and has raised 427,000 pounds thus far.
Despite visa obstacles, health challenges, and even robbery, Cook’s dedication has remained unwavering. His adventure has brought him across deserts, rainforests, and mountains, testing him to the limit. At the finish line, he will be greeted with a celebratory party including British punk band Soft Play performing.