Stone schoolboy Ethan Masterson, 11, set himself a target to run 2 miles a day for 100 days, and despite some challenges along the way, has completed 201 miles.
Ethan was inspired to start the epic undertaking by Captain Sir Tom Moore, and did his first 2 miles on 2nd February 2021, the day Sir Tom died. On Valentines Day he completed an extra mile to show his love for the NHS, and most of the miles have been along the town’s canal towpaths.
Unfortunately a knee injury on day 74 caused problems, and Ethan was forced to rest after day 80 for a few days to recovery. Under orders from the doctor, the challenge was changed to a walk from day 87 to avoid any further injury. Ethan then nominated people to run for him each day, including his headteacher Mrs Harrison from St Dominic’s Priory, and his rugby coach from Stoke Rugby Club Ben Hammersley, while he completed the miles walking.
He restarted the challenge but by day 87 his doctor ordered no more running. Disappointed but undeterred, he has been walking his 2 miles daily since day 87 and has been nominating 1 or 2 people each day to run his 2 miles. He has then been using his pocket money to sponsor them on his JustGiving page – increasing the total amount he has raised.
Ethan crossed the finish line on his 201st mile on Sunday afternoon, with lots of banners, balloons and celebration. He has so far raised £3645 for NHS Charities Together.
Mum Michelle told ALBOS: “He has had so many well-wishers along Stone canal towpath over the last 100 days – it is very heartening to know that our town is filled with such lovely people. His knee was just about strong enough to run his last 2 miles, but he is limping badly today.”
You can still donate to Ethan’s cause by heading to his Just Giving page.. Well done Ethan, and speedy recovery!
