Dodging machetes and crossing sandstorms, ‘Hardest Geezer’ runs length of Africa

Russ Cook, an endurance runner from the United States, embarked on an extraordinary journey in 2014 when he decided to run the entire length of Africa, from the northernmost tip in Morocco to the southernmost tip in South Africa. The distance he covered was approximately 16,373 kilometers (10,172 miles), which is equivalent to running more than 385 marathons.

Cook's journey took him through 16 African countries: Morocco, Algeria, Niger, Nigeria, Cameroon, Gabon, Republic of Congo, Angola, Namibia, Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Lesotho, and Swaziland (now Eswatini). He began his run in Morocco on March 27, 2014, and completed his journey in South Africa on July 27, 2017.

Throughout his run, Cook faced numerous challenges that tested his physical and mental endurance. One of the most significant challenges was encountering machete-wielding villagers in some areas. In Nigeria, for instance, he was forced to run for his life when a group of angry villagers chased him with machetes after they mistakenly believed he was a thief or a spy.

Another challenge Cook faced was the harsh desert conditions in countries like Algeria and Niger. He had to deal with extreme heat, sandstorms, and limited water supplies. In some areas, he had to dig wells to find water or rely on the kindness of locals to provide him with water.

Cook also suffered from several bouts of food poisoning during his journey, which left him weakened and unable to continue running for extended periods. Despite these challenges, he persevered and continued to push forward, often running for up to 70 kilometers (43 miles) per day.

Throughout his journey, Cook documented his experiences in a blog, which he updated regularly with photos and stories about the people he met and the challenges he faced. He also raised awareness for various charities, including WaterAid and the World Wildlife Fund, by running through their respective countries and encouraging donations.

Cook's incredible feat has earned him the nickname "Hardest Geezer" (a term used in the UK to refer to a tough or hardy person). His journey is a testament to human endurance and determination, and it continues to inspire people around the world to push beyond their limits and pursue their dreams.