West Berkshire runner prepares for 1000 mile challenge
David Clyde is running in support of Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent hospice
David Clyde, a 57-year-old ultrarunner from Thatcham, is gearing up to take on the challenge of his life - running 1,000 miles from Land's End to John O'Groats in just five weeks.
David’s journey is driven by the care his mum received at Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent Hospice in Reading - and he aims to raise crucial funds for the charity's end-of-life and bereavement services.
David said: "I got into running with half and full marathons in the mid-2000s. In 2019, I jumped into ultrarunning with a 100km race, diving in with both feet. Running from Land's End to John O'Groats was always one of the ultimate challenges I fancied. While I considered cycling it, I realised I wasn't much of a cyclist, so I decided to run it!"
David decided to take on the monumental challenge after his dad died a few years ago. "Unfortunately, my dad, John, passed away in November 2021, which made me think life is too short and you must do things when you can," David said. "The following year, my mum got ill with cancer and was cared for by Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent Hospice for three months before passing away in December. Seeing her pain at home compared to the comfort and care she received at Sue Ryder was inspiring and I knew I wanted to give back and raise vital funds for the hospice."
The care provided by Sue Ryder left a lasting impact on David and his family. "Sue Ryder is a charity that provides excellent care," David said. "My mum, Joan, had her own comfortable room, and the medical care was top-notch. Everyone there was lovely and made us cups of tea. The end-of-life care they provided was as pleasant as a situation like that can be. Seeing my mum in a supportive environment while she was battling cancer made a huge difference. The staff at Sue Ryder were fantastic, creating a comforting environment for her and our family."
In preparation for his journey, David has taken part in several ultra events and has a rigorous training routine. David said: "Last year, I did the Ultra Tour of Arran, a two-day event covering 60 miles. I also completed 'The Wall’ - a 70-mile race from Carlisle to Gateshead. I have been battling a few injuries along the way - I often joke that the issues between my hip and my toe are the least of my problems when faced with 1,000 miles to run!
"Fundraising is a significant motivator, knowing that I'm committed to this cause. Running is also an excellent stress reliever, it helps with mental health, providing a release and focus. When you're out running, you're concentrated on reaching the next goal."
David's 1,000 mile journey will begin on 31 May, and David hopes that the challenge will not only push his physical and mental limits, but also to make a significant impact on the lives of those in need through his support of Sue Ryder.
David added: "Personally, I want the satisfaction of completing this challenge and making connections with others along the way. For Sue Ryder, I am aiming to raise £5,000. Knowing I am able to give back to a charity that helped my family and me is a great feeling, and I hope through this challenge I will also inspire others to achieve their goals."