Market Harborough teen takes on 500-mile charity challenge

A Market Harborough teenager is aiming to run 500 miles in 80 days to raise money for a charity close to his heart.

Will O’Connor, a former pupil at Robert Smyth Academy, is taking on the challenge to support Leicestershire charity HOPE Against Cancer.

Will O’Connor

The gruelling fundraiser will see the 18-year-old run around 10 kilometres a day on at least six days a week, and he has already raised nearly £1,500 in sponsorship.

Will, who works part time at the Fat Face shop in Market Harborough, began the challenge shortly after finishing his A-levels and has been completing early morning runs during the hot weather.

Fitness coach and TV personality Joe Wicks has also shared encouragement for Will, who has been praised for his fundraising efforts:

HOPE Against Cancer. funds more than 100 local research projects across Leicestershire and Rutland, and has a dedicated clinical trials centre at Leicester Royal Infirmary, helping to improve treatment and access to new therapies.

Will told HFM the motivation for the challenge comes from personal experience and spoke to HFM’s Nick Shaw:

Support Will’s fundraising HERE

Updates on the challenge can be followed on Will’s Instagram @willsdayolife.