A record beating ultra-distance runner and sports centre are teaming up in a bid to raise funds for CLAN Cancer Support this summer.

William Sichel and The Pickaquoy Centre have joined forces as part of William’s ‘Challenge William 3100’ which sees him aim to complete the world’s longest certified footrace, the Sir Chinmoy Race, in New York.

While William is taking on the 3,100 mile race over 52 days, The Pickaquoy Centre is encouraging people to take on their own 52 day challenge, however big or small, to cheer William on whilst raising funds for CLAN Cancer Support.

William will be taking part in the gruelling challenge from 17^th June to 7^th August, completing 60 miles each day between 6am until midnight.

Calvin Reid, Pool Manager at The Pickaquoy Centre, is hoping the challenge will capture people’s imaginations.

Calvin said: “We are hoping William’s amazing challenge will inspire people to take on their own challenge, whether that be walking, running, cycling or swimming. This will also be a great opportunity for those that are looking for that extra motivation needed to get them started.

“We are looking forward to seeing what people come up with. From Swim Challenges to laps around the track to counting your steps up Wideford Hill, there are all sorts of creative ideas out there. And many of these activities are included with an ActiveLife membership which will make these challenges even more accessible and affordable for folks.”

Karen Scott, CLAN Cancer Support’s Services Area Manager, said: “We are always amazed by the challenges that William takes on while raising vital funds to support the services CLAN provides for people affected by a cancer diagnosis.

“We will be with him every step of the way and hope that as many people as possible support him by taking on their own individual challenge at The Pickaquoy Centre.

“No matter how big or small your personal challenge is, your support will make a real difference to people affected by cancer in Orkney and I’m sure it will also put a spring in William’s step as he tackles the streets of New York!”

William Sichel is delighted to be involved in a local fundraising initiative and also wants to encourage people to set their own challenge.

He said: “Having been affected by cancer myself, as well as my immediate family, I have been delighted to champion the invaluable work of CLAN over the past years. I know from previous experience that having a reason, some other significance, to be doing some immense challenge out with your own personal goals is a huge motivator.

“For me, knowing that the folk in Orkney are doing their own thing and supporting me will give me a great boost as I churn out my 60 miles a day.”

You can follow the challenge on Facebook by searching for ChallengeWilliam3100.

CLAN Cancer Support is an independent charity which provides comfort, support and information, free of charge, for anyone, of any age, affected by any type of cancer. CLAN aims to support people to reduce anxiety, stress and to increase their ability to cope with the effects of a serious illness.

Based in Aberdeen, the charity covers the whole of north-east Scotland, Moray, Orkney and Shetland. CLAN has a presence in Ballater, Banchory, Elgin, Buckie, Forres, Crimond, Inverurie, Fraserburgh, Forres, Lossiemouth, Peterhead, Turriff, Kirkwall and Lerwick.

For more information about CLAN Cancer Support, please call (01224) 647 000 or visit www.clanhouse.org