latest news from The 401 Challenge 7 marathons in 7 days done

The 401 Challenge – USA training trip sees ultra-athlete Ben Smith complete 7 marathons in 7 days across 7 US states. Ben was soon reminded of all the weather that could be thrown at him in his upcoming epic USA Challenge, during his training week in the USA last week.  Torrential rain, scorching 29oC in the morning sun and early starts saw Ben complete 7 marathons in 7 days across 7 states from Louisiana to Illinois all the way up the Mississippi River giving him a lifetime total of 450 marathons.

Ben said ‘It would get so hot during the day we were starting the marathons at 5:30 am each day.  Just getting back to running a marathon each day was a real test and I am so pleased with the way my body has held up and adapted again.  It has given me real confidence for what is to come later this summer.  There is no doubt it is going to be tough running and cycling the 10,700 miles in all weathers and in different terrain, plus carrying all my kit.  This was an amazing trip and good for me mentally knowing I am getting physically stronger and was perfect preparation.’

Ben was advised by his coach Pav Bryan (based in the USA) to consider taking on the 7 in 7 event as it would be excellent training for his USA Challenge which Ben starts in Maine on the 14^th of June.  Ben will be running 40 marathons and cycling across all 50 USA states covering 10,700 miles in just 86 days.  The aim is to raise £104,000 for The 401 Foundation which is building the world’s first mental wellbeing app, designed to empower you to manage, maintain and treat your own mental wellbeing through connecting with community initiatives in your local area.