Russell Cook dinner, higher often called the ‘Hardest Geezer’ on social media, has simply achieved one thing that no one ever has: working the complete size of Africa, from tip to tip, crossing the end line in Tunisia after a whirlwind 352-day journey.
Earlier than Russell launched into his continental problem, he had a mission in thoughts: to dwell a life with no regrets, and to not look again.
The 27-year-old from Worthing, West Sussex, had battled his personal demons, from psychological well being struggles to points with playing and consuming. He needed to show it throughout and ‘make a distinction.’
And make a distinction, he did. By sheer dedication and grit, Russell powered by 16 international locations, elevating an unimaginable £700,000 (roughly R16.5 million) for charity alongside the way in which.
As he crossed the end line in Ras Angela, Tunisia, the cheers from the gang have been deafening. “I’m fairly drained,” Russell advised reporters, with a well-earned smile on his face.
However Russell’s journey wasn’t with out its hurdles. His authentic plan to run from Tunisia to South Africa hit a roadblock when he couldn’t safe an Algerian visa. However did he let that cease him? Not an opportunity.
With a last-minute change of plans, Russell set off from South Africa’s southernmost level on April twenty second. From bustling cities to dense rainforests, towering mountains to the huge Sahara Desert, he tackled all of it head-on.
Adversity met him alongside the way in which. An armed theft in Angola, recurring again ache, and the uncertainty of whether or not he’d safe the Algerian visa to finish his mission. However Russell isn’t one to again down from a problem.
His dedication noticed him by, fuelled by assist of hundreds of thousands of individuals worldwide. Even tech titan Elon Musk and UK MPs took discover, rallying behind him in his quest for the essential visa.
After months of gruelling miles and obstacles, Russell discovered himself within the coronary heart of the Sahara Desert, with the end line in sight.
With supporters by his aspect and the desert sands beneath his ft, he pushed by, decided to succeed in his objective.
As he crossed the ultimate end line, the world celebrated with him. There have been cheers, tears, and even a efficiency by British punk band Mushy Play, previously Slaves, to mark the event.
Amidst all of the jubilation, there’s one factor Russell has been dreaming about since setting out on his journey: a strawberry daiquiri. And you understand what? He’s earned each sip.
Right here’s to the Hardest Geezer who proved that something is feasible with braveness. Cheers to you, Russell.
