Russ Cook, also known as the "Hardest Geezer," has embarked on a formidable challenge in New Zealand, aiming to scale the equivalent of ten Mount Everests in elevation over the next ten weeks. The 27-year-old adventurer from Worthing, West Sussex, began his journey at Stirling Point in Bluff, located at the southern tip of New Zealand's South Island. He plans to run northbound for about 60 days, covering approximately 1,864 miles (3,000 km) to reach the finish line at Cape Rēinga in Northland.
During this ambitious endeavor, Cook will not only navigate diverse terrains of mountains, forests, coastlines, and cities but will also partake in adrenaline-pumping activities. These include bungee jumping off the Auckland Harbour Bridge, canyon swinging in Queenstown, and skydiving in Abel Tasman. He intends to complete 60 ultramarathons throughout the challenge, demonstrating his extraordinary endurance and determination.
Cook's previous adventure involved running the length of Africa, from South Africa's southernmost point to Tunisia. This monumental journey concluded in April last year, after 352 days on the road, raising over £1 million for charity. Reflecting on these experiences, Cook stated:
"If anything, from my experiences before in Africa, it has made me more finely attuned to the risks that I can take and the risks that I can't take." – Russ Cook
The current challenge in New Zealand promises not only physical trials but personal growth as well. Cook believes in pushing through discomfort and uncertainty to learn and develop:
"A lot of personal growth is done in those little uncomfortable spots. You're not totally 100% sure, but you go for it anyway, and you make it happen, and that's when you learn." – Russ Cook
The adventurer has already received a warm reception in New Zealand, which he finds encouraging for the journey ahead:
"The incredible, warm welcome I've received so far has already given me a glimpse of how special the journey ahead of me will be." – Russ Cook
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