The first person ever to run the length of Africa shares his inspirational story

10,000 miles. 16 countries. 352 days

Russ Cook, also known as Hardest Geezer, the ultra-endurance athlete who was the first person to run the entire length of Africa. From his starting point in Cape Agulhas, South Africa, up to the finishing line in Tunisia on the 7th of April 2024, Russ experienced everything the great continent had to offer. From sandstorms in the Sahara Desert to rainforests in the Republic of Congo and even across mountain ranges, Russ ran the equivalent of 386 consecutive marathons, covering 10,000 miles. His epic journey took 354 days, traveling through 16 countries and saw him raise over £1 million for charity.

Despite facing considerable obstacles, including attempted kidnaps, armed robbery, and being denied entry to Algeria, Russ never once contemplated giving up. Through his determination and ability to overcome extreme odds, when he crossed the finish line in Ras Angela, 50 weeks after he started his journey alone, Russ finished his pan-African run with the eyes of the world on him.

Russ’s decision to tackle Africa may have been his most physical challenge to date, but it came after years of Russ’s personal struggles with serious gambling and drinking addictions. For years, Russ hid the realities of his struggles until he found the personal triumph that comes with completing endurance challenges, and his life took a drastic turn. Through his experiences and trials, Russ has learned that you can’t avoid the struggle; you just have to go through it.

Hardest Geezer: Mind over Miles is an inspirational story of sheer grit, incredible determination, and a motivational lesson on overcoming the odds and achieving your full potential.

‘You get one chance at life. Go and have a stab at it.’ - Russ Cook, Hardest Geezer.

This is the first time Russ will share his remarkable story with a live audience at Worthing’s Assembly Hall, and it will happen in only six weeks, on 1 November 2024. The show is the Hardest Geezer’s only Southeast UK live date this year, so don’t miss out…

When can I get my tickets?

General 10 AM Friday 20 September