After a gruelling five-day journey, Jon Cooke, CEO of nurtur.group, Sean Newman of Fine & Country Midlands and Craig Dyce, current age group World and European Duathlon Champion, have successfully completed their ambitious challenge along the Grand Union Canal Towpath. The trio (pictured above) undertook this monumental effort to raise funds for the Fine & Country Foundation, and they have triumphantly raised over £6,800.
Despite facing the physical toll of sore legs and strapped up ankles, Cooke, Newman, and Dyce persevered through 154 miles, beginning at Gas Street Basin in Birmingham and concluding at Fine & Country’s Park Lane office in London. Covering an ultra-marathon distance of approximately 30 miles per day, their journey spanned the picturesque countryside of Warwickshire, Northamptonshire, Buckinghamshire, and the Chilterns, showcasing both their endurance and commitment to the cause.
Cooke and Dyce took on the challenge as runners, while Newman opted to walk the route. Their dedication was matched by an outpouring of support from the community through donations and joining them on various legs of the journey, walking, running, or biking alongside them.
Cooke says: “Completing this challenge was incredibly demanding, but knowing that our efforts are helping those in need made every step worthwhile. We’re deeply grateful for the support we’ve received and thrilled to have raised over £6,800 for the Fine & Country Foundation.”
Newman says: “This journey was about more than just reaching London; it was about raising awareness and funds for homelessness and poverty. Seeing people along the way who were sleeping under some of the canal bridges, really brought home why we were doing this challenge. The support from everyone who joined us and donated is truly heartwarming.”
And Dyce, whose athletic prowess was a source of inspiration throughout the challenge, adds: “It was an honour to be part of this initiative. The funds raised will make a significant difference, and I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished together.”
The Fine & Country Foundation, established in 2014 by Malcolm Lindley and Sean Newman, is dedicated to assisting those facing poverty and homelessness. With this latest fundraising effort, the Foundation is edging closer to its £1 million milestone, a fitting celebration of its 10th anniversary.
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Across the line: The trio finish the epic challenge.
