Man who ran length of Africa to release book

The man who ran the entire length of Africa is to release a book detailing his experiences during the challenge.

After complications with visas, health scares, geopolitical issues and an armed robbery, Russell Cook, nicknamed “Hardest Geezer”, crossed the finish line in Tunisia on 7 April after 352 days.

The 27-year-old, from Worthing, West Sussex, has raised more than £1m ($1.27m) for charity.

Mr Cook said the book will tell stories from “the most insane year of my life”.

The extreme challenge began at South Africa's most southerly point on 22 April 2023, and finished more than 10,190 miles (16,400km) north in Tunisia.

He had originally planned to complete the equivalent of 360 marathons in 240 days but extended the challenge due to complications.

Mr Cook said the challenge “fundamentally changed who I am, physically, mentally and spiritually”.

“In my book, I not only tell the untold stories of what really happened during the most insane year of my life, I talk about the steps I took to overcome all the challenges along the way,” he said.

“I hope I can pass on some lessons I have learnt, but above all, I hope my story of a truly mad adventure can inspire you to really believe in yourself and go and get what you want out of life, whatever that looks like for you.”

The book is to be released on 24 October.

Mr Cook, who was raising money for The Running Charity, recently completed a new challenge - running to Germany to support England at Euro 2024.

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