A MARATHON runner has pledged to run 60 marathons in 60 consecutive days at the age of 60 to support children and young adults with life-limiting conditions.

Steve Radjen, 60 and from Brockenhurst, has his sights firmly set on breaking the Guinness World Record for ‘most consecutive days to run a marathon distance’, with the proceedings from his epic encounter all going to a Wessex charity.

‘Superhuman’ Steve has spent almost two decades notching up hundreds of miles in aid of Naomi House & Jacksplace, a charity providing care to children and young adults across Hampshire and Dorset.

A sterling array of fundraising achievements earned Steve a British Empire Medal (BEM) in the Queen’s New Year's Honours List for 2021. However, his latest exploit – taking place from August 17 to October 15 – surpasses anything he’s ever attempted before.

Bournemouth Echo: New Forest marathon runner Steve Radjen has pledged to run 60 marathons in 60 consecutive daysNew Forest marathon runner Steve Radjen has pledged to run 60 marathons in 60 consecutive days

Speaking ahead of the challenge, Steve said: “A lot of people have questioned why I’d even attempt to do something so crazy. Put simply, I don’t run to add days to my life, I run to make the days of other lives better.

From the first moment I walked through the doors at Naomi House, I instantly felt the desire to give something back. I’m very fortunate to have two active and healthy daughters, and I felt an immense sense of belonging once I saw the smiling faces, heard the laughter and felt the positive atmosphere that emanated throughout the house.

“Once I walked out of the door, my life was changed forever.

“60in60at60 will definitely be my last challenge. I have promised that to my family. My tenure as a trustee will come to an end in October. However, my support for Naomi House and Jacksplace will never end.”

Bournemouth Echo: Naomi House & Jacksplace are hospices supporting life limited and life threatened children and young adultsNaomi House & Jacksplace are hospices supporting life limited and life threatened children and young adults

Balmer Lawn Hotel in the New Forest has vowed to host a fundraising campaign for Steve.

Meanwhile, Naomi House’s fundraising director Paul Morgan added: “Steve epitomises the community-centred nature of the support that has enabled us to grow as a charity.

“Over the years, Steve has tackled some of the toughest physical endurance challenges that anyone can imagine – and always with the dual objective of raising funds and awareness to support our children.”

Steve has already raised more than £8,000 for his latest challenge. Visit justgiving.com/fundraising/steve-radjen-60in60at60 for more information.