Publicity note
Run Across America for Thames Hospicecare
In April 2007, Martin Ilott, a veterinary surgeon from Windsor, will be embarking on a 3000 mile solo-run from Los Angeles to New York to raise money for Thames Hospicecare. If successful, he believes he will be the first British runner to complete the run across America unaided.
The Run Across America is dedicated to the memory of Martin’s father, Donald, himself a keen runner and member of Maidenhead Athletic Club, who sadly died in 2003 after a short battle with pancreatic cancer. He had supported Martin in his successful attempt in running from Land’s End to John O’Groats in 2002 and they had planned a similar attempt at a trans-American crossing before the tragic events unfolded.
“Dad loved running and travelling and especially enjoyed his morning runs around Central Park and taking part in the NY Marathon whilst working in the USA “ says Martin “and I will do my very best to complete the challenge”. With no following support vehicle Martin plans to push a baby jogger carrying essential supplies the entire way.
Martin will begin his run at Huntington Beach, California on the 31st March, heading north-east towards Las Vegas. “I am very grateful to many individuals who have provided support and advice during the planning phase” says Martin, “Alan Firth, the Trans-America Race Director of the 2002 & 2004 races and a Swedish ultra-runner, Rune Larsson have been especially helpful. There are many other journey runners I would like to thank and the authors of so many fascinating books on the subject, including Paul Staso who completed his solo run in 2005 and is planning a crossing by bike in 2007, John Wallace III, Randy Ellis and Nick Baldock”.
Martin’s employer, the Veterinary Medicines Directorate, one of the leading regulatory agencies for veterinary medicines in Europe has granted him extended leave to fulfil his longstanding ambition.
His wife, Rebecca, and four children have also been very supportive - “especially now they have an opportunity to visit New York in June!” adds Martin. Gratitude is also extended to his relatives in California who have helped get the project off the drawing board and his mother, Brenda, who has helped finance the project.
Thames Hospicecare exists to improve care for people with cancer and life limiting illnesses and to give support to their families and carers. Specialist nursing care and a wide range of complementary therapies are used to help improve the quality of life and enable people to live life to the full.
To sponsor Martin or follow his progress, visit his website at www.runxusa.info or log on to his justgiving charity site at www.justgiving.com/martinilott. Alternatively, e-mail martin at martin.ilott39@btinternet.com.
