Cape Town - As if running a marathon is not enough of a challenge, Ross Dold will be attempting to break the Guinness World Record for the fastest marathon, dressed as a bird.
The current record stands at 4 hours and 15 minutes, with Dold’s goal sub-four hours.
The Durbanville resident will be attempting this feat at the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon next month, where he will compete in the 42.2km race.
Dold said had he always wanted to be a world record holder and have his name in the Guinness World Record.
“After correspondence with Guinness and having found out the particular requirements for different costumes and existing records for each, I decided that the bird category was most achievable in terms of the current record to beat and costume to source,” he said.
He will be attempting the record to raise funds for the Cape of Good Hope SPCA’s mobile clinics.
Dold said he ran had run many races dressed in an animal costume to raise awareness for the animal welfare organisation, however, he decided that this time it needed to be bigger and better.
“The SPCA's mobile clinics do thankless work for stray and rescued animals, as well as for domestic pets whose owners can't afford private veterinary care.They are a team close to my heart.
“Animals play a massive role in my life, having had dogs, cats, hamsters and snakes as pets over the years. I believe that domestic companions are vital for our overall well-being due to their inherent empathic personalities,” he said.
As part of his preparations, Dold will be running for three hours in the chicken costume on the Sea Point Promenade tomorrow.
“My preparation is going well, and I only have a few long runs left before tapering down to marathon day.
“I believe that trail running is excellent cross-training for road running, as it builds different muscles and breaks the metronomic style of the road,” he said.
Regarding the event, he said the plan was to enjoy it as the Cape Town Marathon route was really beautiful and this was a wonderful way to see the city from a different perspective.
“I look forward to the cheers and chirps when people see me running past. It's always a good laugh and wonderful boost.
“The ubuntu of the runners and the support of those along the route is a great example of the human spirit,” he said.
Communications and fundraising manager at the Cape of Good Hope SPCA, Marisol Gutierrez, said they are delighted that Dold chose to support their organisation in his record-breaking attempt.
“His effort is impressive and the funds he raises will directly benefit the work of our mobile clinics, which take much-needed help and care to animals in under-resourced communities.
“By participating in events to raise funds for us, amazing people like Ross help to keep our doors open, as do the kind people who support us through their donations,” she said.