New dad takes on ultra challenges

Tuesday 3rd April 2012

Dad Graeme Potts is taking on nine extreme challenges in seven months to raise money for some of the world's poorest girls.

In total, Graeme, 28, who lives in York, will run more than 280 miles on behalf of international children's charity, Plan UK.

He has already completed the 32-mile Haworth Hobble, five ultra-marathons, one regular marathon, a race up Mount Snowdon and the 23.3-mile Yorkshire Three Peak Challenge.

Graeme, who is originally from Darlington, said: "I was keeping an eye out for something that was going to push me to the limits."

Graeme's one-year-old daughter, Tabitha, inspired him to raise money for Plan UK's Because I am a Girl campaign. The movement fights for the rights of 75 million girls globally who are out of school.

He said: "It just didn't seem right that so many of the world's girls aren't in education and will struggle through every day of their lives, and to be honest that didn't sit well with me.

"I thought that the least I could do is put myself through some pain and discomfort, raise some money, but hopefully and, more importantly, raise awareness of the situation."

Graeme's challenge will culminate at the end of October with his longest race, the 50-mile Rowbotham's Round Rotherham. He hopes his endeavours will raise £1,000.

Kevin Machin, fundraising manager at Plan UK, said: "We're so grateful to Graeme for taking on this mammoth challenge to support our Because I am a Girl campaign.

"Graeme's dedication and training is amazing. Our fundraisers are known to take on a challenge, but this level of endurance is absolutely fantastic."

To sponsor Graeme visit http://www.justgiving.com/graeme-potts.

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