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 across Africa in 2014, covering a distance of approximately 16,300 kilometers (10,127 miles) through sixteen countries. This remarkable feat is equivalent to running more than 385 marathons back-to-back.

Cook's adventure began in Morocco's northernmost tip and took him all the way to the southernmost tip of South Africa. His route took him through some of the most challenging terrains and climates Africa has to offer.

One of the most significant challenges Cook faced during his journey was encounters with machete-wielding villagers. In some areas, local residents saw his presence as a threat or an intrusion, leading to confrontations. In one instance, in the Central African Republic, Cook was chased by a mob wielding machetes. He managed to escape by running as fast as he could, leaving behind his belongings and valuable supplies.

Another major challenge was the desert sandstorms that Cook encountered in countries like Egypt, Libya, and Algeria. These storms, also known as "haboobs," can reach hurricane-force winds and create walls of sand that can be up to 1,500 feet high. During these storms, Cook had to take shelter in abandoned buildings or dig trenches to protect himself from the relentless sand and wind.

Cook also faced numerous bouts of food poisoning, which left him bedridden for days at a time. In some areas, he had to rely on local sources for food, which sometimes led to illnesses. Despite these challenges, he persevered and continued his journey.

Throughout his run, Cook encountered a diverse range of people and cultures. He was welcomed with open arms by some communities, while others were hostile towards him. He documented his experiences in a blog, sharing stories of the kindness and generosity he encountered as well as the hardships he faced.

Cook's journey took him through the following countries: Morocco, Western Sahara, Algeria, Libya, Tunisia, Egypt, Sudan, Ethiopia, Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, Malawi, Zambia, and South Africa. He completed his journey on December 27, 2014, reaching the southernmost tip of South Africa, becoming one of the few people to have run the entire length of the African continent.

Cook's incredible journey is a testament to human endurance and determination. Despite the numerous challenges he faced, he never gave up and continued to push forward, inspiring many with his story of courage and resilience.