LONDON, September 14, 2015 /PRNewswire/ --
- With Photos
Phil Packer MBE today completed the mammoth challenge of completing 26 miles across London in just under 14 hours (13 hrs and 55mins to be exact) - managing to shave off more than 13 days off of his personal best time.
(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20150914/266354 )
(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20150914/266356 )
You may remember Phil's story from 2009 - Phil sustained serious spinal cord injuries whilst on operational duties in Her Majesty's Forces in February 2008 and was told he might not walk again. Defeating the odds, Phil went on to walk the London Marathon aided by crutches the following year in a gruelling 14 days and was met at the finishing line by legendary Olympian Sir Steve Redgrave.
In a touching tribute, Phil was met once again by Sir Steve Redgrave today to greet and congratulate Phil at the finish line, alongside members of his family and leaders from several supporting charities.
Phil was also helped today by the Royal Marines who have supported Phil during 60 weeks of extensive training. Phil set off at 04:30hrs this morning and has walked through the day on a route which took him round The City, to the Houses of Parliament where he was met by Black Rod and to Downing Street.
Phil's fantastic and inspiring achievement was part of an ongoing fundraising drive for the British Inspirational Trust (BRIT) charity of which he is the non-paid CEO and founder. The challenge today was to launch an appeal to 100 businesses or individuals in the City of London to pledge £14k to help reach the target of £1.4m to accelerate the development of the UK's first ever residential Centre of Inspiration dedicated to Charities supporting young people in the UK facing trauma and adversity.
He comments, "Today was all about supporting young people facing trauma and adversity in their lives. This marathon marks an appeal to invite 100 businesses or individuals to pledge £14k and reach a target of £1.4m. Businesses started pledging today and I hope more will be encouraged to follow suit. I also hope that this will enthuse and encourage young people to set themselves challenges and can raise awareness of mental trauma."
Phil Packer's achievement back in 2009 led to him receiving the Helen Rollason Award at the BBC Sports Personality of the Year Awards as well as fundraiser of the Year at the Pride of Britain Awards.
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