The World's Toughest Fun Run

30 MAY2011

Sally Gunnell, one of Britain's most popular Olympians, will be travelling to Africa in November to take part in the Great Ethiopian Run. Sally will be representing anti-poverty charity ActionAid and she is asking runners to get on their marks and join her on this 10K challenge.

The Great Ethiopian Run isn't your usual 10K run, it takes place half-way across the world in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia's capital. With 33,000 participants it is Africa's biggest road race and at an altitude of 7,600 feet in hot Ethiopian temperatures it is a challenge for experienced runners and newcomers alike.

This year, from November 25-30, participants will have the opportunity to race alongside champion hurdler Sally and test their endurance in this demanding run, but will also get to visit one of ActionAid's remarkable local projects as well as explore the ancient capital Addis Ababa.

Sally says: "I am really excited about taking part in Africa's biggest race later this year. It's going to be a fantastic opportunity to run alongside some amazing people in a beautiful country and get the chance to see the great work ActionAid is doing to help women and communities out of poverty. I urge all runners to take up the challenge and help run poverty into the ground."

Running is an important part of Ethiopia's culture, and although the race is the scene for professional athletes battling for first place, the event is also famous for its carnival atmosphere with many runners singing and dancing their way around the course. The race has been described as 'the world's toughest fun run' and past participants describe the thousands of people cheering along the route as incredibly moving, as many have walked for miles just to celebrate with the runners.

Each person taking part needs to raise £2,300 plus a £300 registration fee. This fundraising target includes flights, transfers, accommodation, all meals and an entry place in the Great Ethiopian Run. ActionAid will also provide an English-speaking guide and full local-support team.

ActionAid need some brave people to compete in Africa's largest road race, to raise money for ActionAid's work and to experience Ethiopia like never before. So get on your marks. Get set and sign up for the Great Ethiopian Run!

Find out more at the ActionAid website.