Izzard’s 27 marathons in 27 days honours Mandela
THE BRITISH stand-up comedian and actor Eddie Izzard runs his 12th marathon today since arriving in South Africa as part of his quest to run 27 in 27 days to honour Nelson Mandela’s years in prison.
His route traces the story of Mandela’s life: Izzard started his challenge in the former president’s town of birth, Mvezo in the Eastern Cape. Izzard’s mission is to also raise funds for Sports Relief, a charity for disadvantaged people in the UK and elsewhere.
Today he will set off from Wapadsberg in the Eastern Cape and run 42kms, continuing his journey to Cape Town, before heading north where his final marathon will bring him to the Mandela statue at the Union Buildings in Pretoria on March 20.
Vicci Moyles, producer for Comic Relief, one of the chari- ties involved in the event, said Izzard had suffered dehydra- tion, heat exhaustion and sunstroke, but was still determined to reach his destination.
“To cope with the temperatures that can reach over 40ºC, he has been taking a break from the peak South African heat between 11.30am and 3.30pm. He is also following advice from a doctor.
The money he raises will help support projects in some of the poorest communities in Africa and the UK. Since 1990 Comic Relief has made 200 grants to projects in South Africa. There are 36 projects receiving funding from Comic Relief, these include the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund, New Life in Beaufort West, Skateistan and Laureus Sport for Good,” said Moyles.
Along the way, Izzard has been having his picture taken with fans and sharing them on social media.