A huge congratulations to Mr Riches, a member of our Geography Department and our Duke of Edinburgh Coordinator, on an incredible achievement at the recent 7 Valleys Ultra.
For the third consecutive year, Mr Riches took on the demanding ultra-marathon, putting his endurance, determination and resilience to the ultimate test. This year, he completed the race in an impressive 22 hours, 53 minutes and 8 seconds – a remarkable achievement that deserves enormous recognition.
The 7 Valleys Ultra is certainly not for the faint-hearted. Combining challenging Lake District terrain with an exceptionally long distance (110.6km and a total elevation over 3981km!), the event requires months of preparation, physical endurance and, perhaps most importantly, a huge amount of mental resilience. To complete such an event once is an achievement; to return year after year demonstrates an extraordinary level of commitment.
Mr Riches' achievement is particularly fitting given his role as our Duke of Edinburgh Coordinator, where he encourages students to challenge themselves, step outside their comfort zones and develop the resilience and determination needed to achieve their goals. It is fair to say that he certainly practises what he preaches!
Completing an ultra-marathon that takes almost 23 hours is a fantastic personal achievement, but Mr Riches' decision to return for a third consecutive year makes the accomplishment even more impressive.
Congratulations, Mr Riches, on a fabulous achievement – and on demonstrating yet again that determination, resilience and a willingness to take on a challenge can take you a very long way!