Parkinson’s fundraisers turn record breakers
WHAT do you call two men travelling on three legs? World record holders!
A Tadley man has beaten two world records for the longest distance travelled on three legs, writes Fiona Paus.
Chairman of the board of Parkinson’s UK trustees Gary Shaughnessy and his friend Andy Tucker spent last weekend tied at the leg to raise money for Parkinson’s UK.
In 24 hours, the dynamic duo completed nearly 300 loops of the circuit at Silchester Playing Fields, over 117km, outrunning the previous record of 116.4km.
They also beat the furthest distance covered in 12 hours by 2km.
Mr Shaughnessy, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2015, said: “I feel really delighted about the experience. We’ve had support throughout, such as the
friends who ran with us for two thirds of the way and our families have been superb.
“We’ve also raised awareness for Parkinson’s; it’s been tough but brilliant.”
The event was one of a series of challenges taken on by Mr Shaughnessy to raise money and awareness of the
disease.
So far, he has received donations of more than £10,000 and looks to continue his venture next month at the San Sebastian marathon.
According to Mr Shaughnessy, the donations will finance research into Parkinson’s, and the challenges themselves help him manage the condition.
“Exercise is one thing that can slow down the progression of Parkinson’s, so it’s been really helpful for me mentally and physically,” he added.
During last year’s lockdown, Mr Tucker and Mr Shaughnessy first attempted the three-legged race, but due to social distancing regulations had a mannequin tied between them.
This meant they could not officially beat the Guinness World Record, leaving them determined this time.
“It felt unfinished after last year so it’s brilliant in many ways to have completed it now,” Mr Shaughnessy said.
“Although it’s been a great experience we don’t plan on doing it again – 24 hours is a long time.”
To donate to Mr Shaughnessy’s fundraising, visit https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/Garyschallenges