Not content with the challenges of his day job as an analytical chemist for Melbourn Scientific in Melbourn, Martin Westcott, 30, is about to embark on the biggest test of his life
On 27 March 2008, Martin Westcott will take part in the world's toughest foot race, Marathon des Sables, a 151 mile endurance race through the Sahara desert, raising money for pupils at Castle School in Cambridge, a specialist school for children and young people with complex learning difficulties.
The race will take part over a week, broken down into six stages with contestants running anything from 15-50 miles per day.
Temperatures will average around 50C during the day and can be sub-zero at night.
Westcott explains: "I have been training for the race for the last 12 months running regularly and taking part in a number of distance events, but I have yet to experience running over such difficult terrain or in high temperatures.
"I like to think I am quite fit; I play football in the Eastern Counties League for Haverhill Rovers, but I reckon this race will really test my stamina, mental and physical endurance".
Westcott is being joined in the race by his brother-in-law Simon Fisher, where they will have to carry everything they need for traversing the desert, including sleeping bags, food, medical supplies and clothing - only drinking water is provided.
All the costs of entering the Marathon des Sable have been covered by Westcott, so any sponsorship he receives will go directly towards providing a disabled child with a specially adapted trike.
Carol McCarthy, head teacher of Castle School, said, "This is great news, trikes are invaluable for supporting mobility and building self-esteem and need to be specially adapted.
"It is fitting that Martin's multi-marathon effort will help a child gain freedom of movement.
"We are so thrilled that he thought of us and look forward to welcoming him into school to tell us about his experience.
"We wish him all the luck in the world".
Castle School opened in 2006 following the closure of four schools in the Cambridge area.
These were Rees Thomas, Lady Adrian, Windmill and Green Hedges.
157 pupils from those schools now attend the newly built Castle school, on the old Lady Adrian site.
The school benefits from purpose built accommodation including extensive outdoor learning areas and a hydrotherapy pool.
Trikes, like the one Westcott is hoping to raise funds for are an important part of our curriculum and leisure time.
Contact Martin Westcott direct with offers of help or sponsorship.
