Ipswich Half Marathon runner completes 7 runs in 7 days

Malcolm Ward-Ashton, 55, was inspired to take on the challenge after his son Callum was diagnosed with testicular cancer.

The first half marathon of the challenge took place on Monday, September 16th, coincided with Callum's 30th Birthday. 

The drayman has raised almost $2,000 for US based charity Raleigh Testicular Cancer Foundation. 

Malcolm Ward-Ashton ran the Ipswich Marathon as the final stretch of his 7 in 7 challenge (Image: Malcom Ward-Ashton) "I was really proud of what we've done with getting the word out there about testicular cancer.

"It wasn't just about raising money for the charity, we wanted to try and get the stigma down and to encourage people get themselves checked.

"So many young people die from this."

Mr Ward-Ashton ran 100 miles in seven days (Image: Malcom Ward-Ashton) Mr Ward-Ashton was inspired to run to raise awareness for testicular cancer, after his son Callum, was diagnosed at the age of 23 whilst living in the US. 

Callum had suffered a groin strain and had called his father's partner, but his family weren't worried as Callum was said to be fit and healthy.

“Three days later after a scan he was told it was testicular cancer. After the operation, we learned it was very aggressive and had spread to his liver," the 55-year-old said.

Mr Ward-Ashton said that his partner left him notes of encouragement each day (Image: Malcom Ward-Ashton) His first half marathon took place last Monday (September 16) at Northgate High School where he took the opportunity to talk to the students and spread awareness. 

"I was looking online and I have not see someone do seven half marathons in seven days.

"I'm so glad I've done it and I hope with the money that we have raised we would have helped someone in a bad situation.

After sustaining a back injury, the 55-year old had to apply deep heat everyday (Image: Malcom Ward-Ashton) "I have been training so hard since March and my body was ready for it to be over."

The almost six month long training was incredibly intense with Mr Ward-Ashton switching to a completely vegan diet to aid his recovery.

Mr Ward-Ashton's time at the Ipswich Half Marathon was one hour and 42 minutes, the fastest time of any half marathons he ran over the week. 

His fundraising page is on the website Check Your Acorns.