Salisbury mum and son braving heat for 46 mile run across Wiltshire today
Polly and Cameron Jacobs are supporting the True Athlete Project
Last updated 17th Jul 2022
Running in this weather sounds like many people's idea of hell, but one Salisbury mother and son are determined to complete a huge challenge today (Sunday 17th July).
15 year old Cameron Jacobs and his mum, Salisbury GP Polly Jacobs, are set to run 46 miles from their home in the city to Swindon, in support of the True Athlete Project.
Cam has autism, ADHD, Tourette's and a condition that requires daily injections, but has a real passion for long-distance cross country running.
He's had a scholarship with the scheme for the last two years - being mentored by GB Paralympic Judo champion Chris Skelley.
The pair have so far raised £850 for the True Athlete Project.
They're hoping to break the £950 target, which is enough to pay for a scholarship for another young person.
Cam's says he's ready for the challenge:
"I think it will be a really fun day. There will be bits that will be tough, but it will be a good challenge and I'll feel lots of achievement afterwards."
This isn't the pair's first major run, having taken on the 36 mile Avon Valley Trail in 2020, from Salisbury to Christchurch, to raise money for Salisbury Young Musicians.
Polly says they've planned some stop-offs along the way, with the help of some local businesses:
"(We'll be going to) the Bridge Inn in the Woodford Valley, the Antrobus Hotel in Amesbury, the Swan at Enford and Honey Street Mill Cafe, and we're so grateful because just going somewhere to sit down, eat, refuel is going to be so helpful!"
Cam explains why he loves about long-distance running:
"When you're doing long trail runs, the views are really good if you go up mountains, you can take in nature and you can let your thoughts wander. You've got lots of time in the fresh air."
You can support Cameron, his mum Polly, and his mentor Chris Skelley in their challenge on their online fundraising page.