A POSTMAN and former Royal Marine from Kidderminster has completed a gruelling mountain marathon for charity.
Shaun Marshall completed the feat – one of Britain’s toughest endurance challenges for The Royal Marines Charity.
He ran a marathon across the Brecon Beacons whilst carrying the equivalent weight of two car tyres on his back to raise funds to support the military community.
Shaun took on the Midnight Mountain Marathon Bergen Edition on Saturday, completing the demanding 26.2-mile course in an impressive seven hours and 30 minutes. He carried a 35lb (16kg) Bergen.
Far removed from a conventional road marathon, the route includes more than 3,500ft of climbing across rugged mountain terrain.
Competitors tackle steep ascents and descents, with the course incorporating sections of the infamously tough Fan Dance route used during British Special Forces selection. These include the gruelling ascent of Pen y Fan, the highest peak in South Wales.
Participants in the Bergen category are required to carry a heavily loaded military-style pack throughout the event, adding a significant challenge to an already demanding course. Shaun finished in second place in the Bergen category.
Reflecting on the experience, Shaun admitted some sections proved tougher than expected.
He said: “The downhill and the flat was tricky.
“I enjoyed the climbing part, even though the Bergen felt heavier every step.”
Despite the physical demands, Shaun drew inspiration from both the significance of the date and the values instilled during his military service.
“As yesterday was the D-Day anniversary, that was definitely in my thoughts, as this was only a race.
“Also, my favourite Corps spirit: ‘Cheerfulness under adversity’ kept me pushing on.”
Shaun has so far raised £575 for RMA Kidderminster and The Royal Marines Charity, smashing his original target of £250.
The funds will help support serving and former Royal Marines and their families when they need it most.
Visit: justgiving.com/crowdfunding/shaun-marshall-101 to donate to Shaun’s fundraising page.
