Support James Elliot Square and Paris Noriss in their ‘Strides for Good’ campaign this Christmas!
In less than two months’ time, James Elliot Square and Paris Noriss will embark on an incredible journey that will see them attempting to run seven marathons on seven different continents in just seven days.
As competitors in the World Marathon Challenge, they will be running a total of 295km in a week to support the Sovereign Art Foundation (SAF). The Challenge begins on 31 January with a marathon around the Ultima Base Camp in the Antarctic, where temperatures plunge as low as -25°C, and finishes with the seventh marathon in Miami on 6 February.
To truly appreciate the potential impact of his training efforts, James visited Hong Kong in September to join one of SAF’s ‘Make It Better’ (MIB) arts workshops, which use expressive arts to promote positive social and emotional change in children who are facing social, emotional, and behavioural challenges.
Under the guidance of Charles Chan, one of SAF’s registered arts therapists, James immersed himself in painting, drawing and other arts activities alongside some of Hong Kong’s most disadvantaged children. And for James, the workshop played a critical role in motivating him to endure the rigorous training needed to compete in the World Marathon Challenge.
“Sitting with the kids in the workshop and witnessing the inspirational work of the therapists enabled me to see how much they stand to benefit from my hardships and to understand exactly why I was taking on this challenge,” said James. “It has certainly given me all the motivation that I need to get to the start line and will hopefully keep providing all the motivation that I will need to get through to the final finishing line.”
During his visit, James also trained all around Hong Kong, using the island’s steep terrain and humidity as part of his preparation for the diverse landscapes and climactic conditions that he will face during the challenge.
As Christmas approaches, James’s training has intensified. He has already achieved some remarkable milestones, which has included running 23km on eight consecutive days and completing a seven-day ‘pyramid’ challenge during which he accumulated a total of 200km. But it has not been plain sailing; he admits to facing mental battles and injuries along the way, which have tested his resilience and determination.
SAF would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who has donated to the ‘Strides for Good’ campaign so far. And if you’re thinking about supporting a truly meaningful cause this holiday season, please consider contributing to the campaign.
Your support will not only inspire James during the Christmas period but also make a real difference to the lives of the many children that SAF assists in Hong Kong and other parts of the world. Every donation, regardless of size, helps provide essential resources and opportunities for these kids. Together we can all make a lasting impact!
