71 Year Old to Face Toughest Footrace on Earth

This week, SportsShoes sponsored athlete Bill Mitchell sets out to be the oldest Briton to complete the epic Marathon Des Sables. Aged 71, Bill will tackle the gruelling multi stage adventure race in searing temperatures, across one of the world's most inhospitable climates - the Sahara desert. He talked to us about all things running before his challenge.

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Aged 63, you went for your first run - what made you decide to start running?

It came about just by  deciding at 63 to go for a daily walk, and I just started to jog along a flat bit of road. Then I started to increase it and started to set goals to aim for.

What's your proudest achievement to date?

To be the oldest Briton to do his first marathon at 65 and complete a 100 by 71.

Describe your first marathon experience in three words:

Just absolutely great

Why did you decide to take on the gruelling MDS?

Every year I like to aim for new target for next year,  and the challenge that I could become the oldest Briton gave me that extra push and a new target.  You have to have something to aim for in life

Tell us a bit about your home/family life'

I'm married to Linda   who is a doctor of philosophy and a children's book author,     My daughter studied at Leeds university and gained a bachelor of science  and has since gained a black belt in martial art and become an instructor in Leeds     I myself still work in my marquee business.

What's your favourite session for building endurance?

Hill repeats are the best I know!

Your top recovery tip?

A protein drink at the end of  a race or workout, and after a marathon I  always like to go for a walk.

Tell us a bit about your choice of charities'

My first charity is  Help the Aged. I feel that I have be fortunate to be able to do what I am doing, so I want to give something to those who may be struggling.   Starlight is also similar but at the other end of the age scale.   I would like to feel that I could help  a child to a achieve their goal, just I have been able  to do.

Your three favourite pieces of kit?

My Skins, due lack of thatch, my cap, and good shoes.

How have you adapted your training for MDS?

I have slowed my average pace down from 9.30 min miles to 15 miles, also every uphill  I speed walk  where I could easily run.

What's your favourite race so far?

The Paris Eco Trail 80k which starts out in the countryside  and is surprisingly hilly. After 80k you have about 285 steps up the Eiffel tower to get to the first level, to reach the finish line. Whenever I see the tower, the memory of that finish  is always there.

What were your key considerations when selecting your MDS kit?

Weight, and suitability for the location.  I weigh everything and if I can save a gram I do.

What would you say to someone thinking of taking up running, especially in later life?

First NEVER SAY YOU ARE TOO OLD!! And do not try do too much' small bites   and increase the distance slowly. YOU SHOULD NOT MAKE YOURSELF SORE - it is meant to be enjoyable.  Finally when you start aim for a target, say a post box - not to far - and time yourself. You will soon see an improvement and this will help to give a feeling that you are improving. When ready, add another one.   Remember' small bites.

Complete the sentence.. "I run because'

' It has given me a lot of  pleasure and  pride in what I have achieved......."

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You can donate here: http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/WilliamMitchell71

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