Student takes on 7 marathons in 7 days

A final-year undergraduate student is pushing his physical and mental limits this summer in an inspiring fundraising challenge for Willow Wood Hospice.

Travis Taylor, 21, who is studying English and Creative Writing at the University of Leeds and has ambitions to become an English Professor, is preparing to run seven marathons in seven consecutive days as part of his self-created ‘Week at the Knees’ challenge.

Starting on 1 July, Travis will take on the remarkable feat of running a total of 295 kilometres across the week, all in aid of the Hospice based in Ashton-under-Lyne. Supporters can follow his journey as he shares his training and documents the entire challenge on Instagram via @trav.tayl.

Travis, who lives in the Lake District, has strong personal connections to the Hospice. His girlfriend Hannah has volunteered there, while her mum Caroline is the Hospice’s Glossop shop manager and her aunty Pauline is Head of Retail.

He said: “I’ve had this idea for a long while but thought that fundraising for the Hospice will motivate me and do some good in the process.

“I know Hannah’s family all speak very highly of the Hospice, it’s close to their hearts and I know it means a lot to the community too. The impact of supporting a local charity is great and I know the amount Willow Wood must raise every year is significant.”

Despite only taking up running during lockdown in 2020, Travis has quickly built up an impressive track record, having already completed several marathons and ultra-marathons. Always seeking his next challenge, he is also planning to take on a 180km ultra marathon in Chamonix, France next year.

“I don’t really have a particular time in mind to complete the marathons but I want to finish them as quickly as possible. I am still planning the routes I’ll take and hopefully the weather that week will be kind.”

His preparation has required dedication and careful planning, balancing training with his university studies.

“I did a half marathon in Manchester in February and following that it was nutritional preparation whilst working on my dissertation, but I have started training every day now and I’m looking forward to it.”

A keen swimmer growing up, Travis admits he doesn’t like sitting still and thrives on pushing himself both physically and mentally.

He is looking to raise as much money as possible to support patients from Tameside and Glossop with a life-limiting illness in Willow Wood’s care.

To support Travis and his ‘Week at the Knees’ challenge, you can make a donation at https://www.justgiving.com/page/week-at-the-knees