Cool runnings! Runner prepares for Bungay half marathon with a freezer on his back
Jimmy Mac is getting ready to run the Bungay half marathon with a fridge on his back PHOTO: Nick Butcher - Credit: Nick Butcher
After completing numerous marathons and half marathons, runner James McCallion decided he needed a new challenge to focus on.
Jimmy Mac is getting ready to run the Bungay half marathon with a fridge on his backPHOTO: Nick Butcher - Credit: Nick Butcher
Which is why, on April 17, the former army sergeant major will be tackling the Bungay half marathon with a fridge freezer strapped to his back.
The 43-year-old from Bungay, known as Jimmy Mac, is hoping to complete the 13-mile course in three-and-a-half hours, supported along the way by running partner and time keeper Louise Reed.
The pair will be raising money for the East Anglian Air Ambulance, a cause close to Mr McCallion's heart.
He said: 'The air ambulance is an emergency service, which at some point in our lives, will be needed to support or save a life of a loved one be it a family member, friend or yourself.
Jimmy Mac is getting ready to run the Bungay half marathon with a fridge on his backPHOTO: Nick Butcher - Credit: Nick Butcher
'This emergency service never seems to get the high profile that it deserves.
'Sadly, I lost a friend Daniel Tubbs in a road traffic accident and the air ambulance was there to support.
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'We will be running in memory of Daniel.'
The idea of running with the unusual load came about after Mr McCallion spotted someone running with a fridge on his back.
He said: 'I've seen it on the marathon and I thought 'I'd love to do that'.'
The 30kg fridge freezer has been attached to a specially-made backpack and Mr McCallion can be seen most weekends training around Bungay with the kitchen appliance strapped in place.
Ms Reed, herself a member of Bungay Black Dog Running Club, said: 'We do get some funny looks.
'The weight is not an issue, it's the stability.
'We are training three times during the week, with a long run on a Saturday.'
The pair have not set a fundraising target but are hoping to raise as much money as they can for the East Anglian Air Ambulance.
To support the runners, visit www.justgiving.com/James-McCallion2/
•Are you taking part in a charity fundraising event? Email lynn.crombie@archant.co.uk
