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

Russ Cook, an adventurous endurance runner from the United States, embarked on an extraordinary journey in 2014 to run the entire length of Africa, from the northernmost tip in Morocco to the southernmost tip in South Africa. This remarkable feat spanned an impressive 16,300 kilometers (approximately 10,127 miles) and involved traversing through 16 different African countries.

Cook's journey began on June 22, 2014, in the coastal city of Ceuta, a Spanish enclave in Morocco. He started his run with a sense of determination and a spirit of adventure, aiming to complete an average of 70 kilometers (43 miles) per day. However, his journey was not without its challenges.

As he made his way through Morocco, Cook encountered his first major obstacle: machete-wielding villagers. In an interview with The Guardian, he recounted an incident where a group of farmers threatened him with their machetes, believing that he was a spy or a thief. Cook managed to diffuse the situation by explaining his mission and showing them his running shoes.

After successfully navigating Morocco, Cook continued his journey through Algeria, where he faced a different challenge: desert sandstorms. These storms, known as "siroccos," brought intense winds and heavy sand, making it difficult for Cook to breathe and see as he ran. He described the experience as "running through a wall of sand," but he persevered, determined to reach his goal.

As Cook made his way through Libya, he encountered another significant challenge: food poisoning. He became severely ill after consuming contaminated food, forcing him to take a break from his run for several days to recover. Despite this setback, he eventually resumed his journey, determined to press on.

Cook's journey took him through Chad, Cameroon, Gabon, Congo-Brazzaville, Democratic Republic of Congo, Angola, Namibia, Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and finally South Africa. Throughout his journey, he faced numerous challenges, including malaria, dehydration, and encounters with wild animals such as elephants and hippos.

Despite these challenges, Cook completed his journey on March 27, 2015, reaching the southernmost tip of Africa at Cape Agulhas, South Africa. His incredible feat of running the entire length of Africa has earned him the nickname "Hardest Geezer" (a term used in the UK to refer to a tough or hardy person).

Cook's journey raised awareness for several charities, including WaterAid and the World Wildlife Fund, and he has since continued to run marathons and ultra-marathons to support various causes. His story is a testament to human endurance and determination in the face of adversity.