Kyneton ultramarathon runner Greg Wilson has pushed his body to its limit competing in the inaugural New Zealand 6 Day Ultramarathon in Christchurch to beat a Cliff Young record.
The 73-year-old placed third among the male runners with a new Australian M70 record for 500 kilometres in four days, 16 hours, 35 minutes and 46 seconds, beating the record set by Cliff Young in Colac in 1992 by 24 minutes and 14 seconds.
The total run of 591.515 kilometres also placed Wilson 12th best distance in the world for the 70+ male age group.
The achievement was even more remarkable given Wilson faced freezing temperatures and pouring rain for much of the marathon.
“This was my first time wearing five layers on top and two lower – impeding movement but essential to avoid hypothermia,” he told the Express.
Wilson will be taking a well-earned rest before embarking on any future marathons but may try for a new record at age 75.
