Dad sets new record to raise money for children’s charity

Monday 8 March 2010

Sussex-based Dan Phillips set a new record last weekend by walking the entire length of the South Downs Way in under two days, dressed as a rocking horse. 

The 28 year-old ex-soldier from Seaford began his 100 mile journey in Winchester last Thursday (4 March) and reached Eastbourne on Saturday afternoon (6 March), all in aid of Rockinghorse.

He walked the distance – the equivalent of almost four marathons – in a brisk 42 hours and 45 minutes, setting an official record recognised by The National Trust as the fastest time to walk the trail.

As a father of a three year-old son, Benjamin, and with a little girl on the way, Dan aims to raise as much money as possible for Rockinghorse, the charity that makes life better for sick children in Sussex.

He said: “Ten years ago, my friends’ twins were born prematurely and they spent a lot of time in the Trevor Mann Baby Unit, which is one of the centres that Rockinghorse supports.

“As a father myself, I can’t imagine what that must have been like for them. It is so important to support local charities and I thought if I’m walking 100 miles, I may as well set a new record!”

Until now, no record has been set for the hike but the trail is generally expected to be walked in six-seven days and cycled in two-three days.

Raise money while taking part in a challenge of a lifetime by signing up for one of our challenge events. Contact Emma Millar on 01273 730286 for more information.