FRIDAY 31 AUGUST
A reported from BBC Radio Leeds came to interview this afternoon. His name was Ed Pryor (hope I've spelled that correctly) and it will be broadcast on the afternoon of Saturday 1 September.
FRIDAY 31 AUGUST
Found this in my local newspaper along with a photo from Llandudno 2010 ...
WEDNESDAY 29 AUGUST 2012
Found this one in The Yorkshire Times ...
SUNDAY 26 AUGUST 2012
Just came across this article in the Bradford Telegraph & Argus ...
I guess there may be a few more articles in the local press over the next week or so following a press release I sent out a couple of days ago.
SATURDAY, 14 JANUARY 2012
From the Yorkshire Evening Post - Saturday 14 January 2012
http://www.yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk/sport/other-sport/athletics/ultra_running_cancer_battler_ready_to_go_the_distance_in_quest_for_records_1_4141568
http://www.yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk/sport/other-sport/athletics/ultra_running_cancer_battler_ready_to_go_the_distance_in_quest_for_records_1_4141568
THURSDAY, 29 SEPTEMBER 2011
These two articles appeared in the Bradford Telegraph & Argus recently:
1 - http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/archive/2011/09/22/Sport+News+%28sport_news%29/9264501.Otley_athlete_aims_to_run_up_the_miles_for_England/
2 - http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/9259170.Carver_aims_to_go_the_distance/
They also appeared in the Wharfedale & Aireborough Observer which is published by the same company.
1 - http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/archive/2011/09/22/Sport+News+%28sport_news%29/9264501.Otley_athlete_aims_to_run_up_the_miles_for_England/
2 - http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/9259170.Carver_aims_to_go_the_distance/
They also appeared in the Wharfedale & Aireborough Observer which is published by the same company.
THURSDAY, 30 JUNE 2011
SATURDAY, 7 MAY 2011
A few links to articles which have appeared in the press recently:
1 - Bradford Telegraph & Argus
2 - Bradford Telegraph & Argus
3 - Bradford Telegraph & Argus (again)
4 - The local newspaper, now titled 'Ilkley, Wharfedale & Aireborough Gazette and Observer' also printed the same three stories.
1 - Bradford Telegraph & Argus
2 - Bradford Telegraph & Argus
3 - Bradford Telegraph & Argus (again)
4 - The local newspaper, now titled 'Ilkley, Wharfedale & Aireborough Gazette and Observer' also printed the same three stories.
THURSDAY, 17 FEBRUARY 2011
Ultrarunning World #4
Here's a link to issue 4 of Ultrarunning World. This edition of the online magazine from Abichal Watkins carries my race report from last year's Perth Ultra Fest.
SATURDAY, 18 SEPTEMBER 2010
The short article below appeared in the Wharfedale & Airedale Observer (Thursday 9 September 2010)
CARVER'S RECORD RUN EARNS HIM VICTORY
Otley's Chris Carver, pictured, was in winning form for England when he competed at the Perth Ultrafest Six Nations 24 Hour Race which started at 10am on Saturday morning. He won the race by 7km running 238.286km (just over 148 miles). It was a personal best by about 7km and helped England win the team prize. The event attracted runners from England, Scotland, Wales, Ireland, Italy and France.
(photo by Alan Young)
CARVER'S RECORD RUN EARNS HIM VICTORY
(photo by Alan Young)
TUESDAY, 25 MAY 2010
An article appeared in the Yorkshire Evening Post on 12 April 2010 which I obviously missed.
Recently there was something in the Bradford Telegraph & Argus on Thursday 20 May 2010 and in the Wharfedale & Airedale Observer on the same day.
Recently there was something in the Bradford Telegraph & Argus on Thursday 20 May 2010 and in the Wharfedale & Airedale Observer on the same day.
WEDNESDAY, 31 MARCH 2010
SUNDAY, 28 MARCH 2010
WHARFEDALE & AIREDALE OBSERVER
Thursday 25 March 2010
Chris Carver of Otley Athletic Club has recently been selected to represent UK at the World 24 hour Championships which take place in Brive, France on 13/14 May this year.
The 46 year old runner, originally from Bradford, took up the sport after watching the Munich Olympic Games on television as an 8 year old boy. After representing his school in cross country races he turned his attention to the roads where he notched up reasonable performances in many local races ranging in distance from 5k to half marathon. In 2006, in need of a new challenge (mainly because of persistent injuries), he decided to try ultra distance racing and was surprised to find that he had eventually found his forte - 34 years after taking up the sport.
The 24 hr event (covering the greatest possible distance in a single day) is one of the oldest established athletic events being over 200 years old. The first recognised 24 hour race took place on the Newmarket to London road in 1806. Now the 24 hr race is probably the most gruelling world championship event in any sport.
This will be his first full international vest although he did represent England at the inaugural Commonwealth Ultra Distance Championships in Keswick last September. In that event he also took part in the 24 hour race and finished in fifth position covering a distance of 231 km/143 miles. He also won a team silver medal and was the leading Englishman.
After taking advice from some of the world's leading ultra distance runners and coaches he is now aiming to cover 10k more in Brive. This won't be an easy task but he knows he can achieve that distance given the right conditions. In a race of this length the smallest error of judgement - pacing, eating, drinking, clothing, etc - is magnified many times and can easily result in many miles lost from the overall distance covered. An example would be chaffed nipples: many runners know how painful this can be during a marathon - imagine that for six marathons. Non stop.
Another example would be nutrition - unlike marathon runners all ultra distance runners face a knife edge between consuming too little and too much while running the race. Too much is likely to result in illness at the side of the course and too little is likely to mean that they cannot maintain their speed and/or endurance. This is made more complicated by the fact that running uses about 100 kcal per mile (about 600-700 kcal per hour) but humans can only metabolise about 300-350 kcal every hour. For a few hours this isn't a problem but over a whole day it can easily become a serious issue.
Last year Chris raised over £2200 for Orchid (a cancer charity which exists to save mens' lives from testicular, prostate and penile cancers through pioneering research and promoting awareness). To do this he ran non stop from his home town of Otley (near Leeds) to London and covered the 218 miles in 46 hours. Chris' feat was all the more remarkable when one considers that he had testicular cancer himself and later lost half his right lung to cancer.
Chris would like to thank the following for essential help, advice and supplies: Steve Raven at Assist Creative Resources Ltd for the Shotz Sports Nutrition; Adam Smith atwww.fitnessfootwear.com for shoes; Alan Young at Dion Networks for lots of practical help and advice; William Sichel for help, advice, friendship and inspiration. And not forgetting his wife and family for the love, encouragement and perseverance.
WEDNESDAY, 21 OCTOBER 2009
Ultra runner uses Shotz in 24-hour marathonposted on www.fitnessdaily.co.uk andhttp://www.assist.co.uk/press-room/news/ultra-runner-uses-shotz-in-24-hour-marathon on Monday 19 October 2009
Chris Carver, a Yorkshire-based ultra runner, recently finished as the highest placed English competitor at the 2009 Commonwealth Mountain and Ultra Distance Championships after running the equivalent of five and a half marathons in the space of just 24 hours.
Chris, who covered a total distance of 231.51km or 143.86 miles, uses Shotz Sports Nutrition products and revealed that they played a key role in helping him achieve a new personal best and landing a silver medal as part of the English team.
“Shotz is essential for keeping me moving during a 24 hour race,” said Chris.
The sport of ultra running involves racing over distances in excess of the traditional marathon length of 26 miles and 385 yards. The most common types of ultra running races are over 50 or 100 miles, although many endurance athletes choose to see how far they can push themselves in a set timeframe.
Chris first caught the running bug in 1972 after being captivated by the Olympic Games in Munich and explained that his fascination with pushing himself to the limit began in 2005.
“I entered the Robin Hood Marathon in Nottingham and found it quite easy so I decided to try some longer distances,” said Chris.
Over the past four years Chris has completed a number of ultra distance races and his performances have shown continuous improvement, something Chris puts down to his use of Shotz Sports Nutrition.
“Obviously it is important that I take on board plenty of liquid during a race and I normally drink between five and six litres of fluid during the course of a 24-hour race,” he said.
“After looking at my nutritional plan I decided to start using Shotz Electrolyte Tablets and they have made a big difference to my performances.”
Shotz Electrolyte Tablets are effervescent tablets which dissolve quickly and easily in water. They help keep athletes hydrated and prevent cramping by delivering electrolytes which regulate fluid balance.
“I have also been using Shotz Carboshotz Energy Gels to keep my energy stores well-stocked and they are really easy to swallow and digest,” added Chris.
Shotz Carboshotz Energy Gels contain a combination of complex and simple carbohydrates to provide a fast-acting hit of sustained energy which helps athletes maintain optimum performance for longer.
After his colossal effort in Cumbria, Chris is hoping that his recent impressive performances will lead to him being selected for World 24-hour Challenge, due to be staged in the French city of Brive in May 2010.
The Shotz Sports Nutrition range, which includes Shotz Electrolyte Tablets and Carboshotz Energy Gels, is available fromwww.fitnessmonitors.com and www.josmarc.com.
Chris Carver, a Yorkshire-based ultra runner, recently finished as the highest placed English competitor at the 2009 Commonwealth Mountain and Ultra Distance Championships after running the equivalent of five and a half marathons in the space of just 24 hours.
Chris, who covered a total distance of 231.51km or 143.86 miles, uses Shotz Sports Nutrition products and revealed that they played a key role in helping him achieve a new personal best and landing a silver medal as part of the English team.
“Shotz is essential for keeping me moving during a 24 hour race,” said Chris.
The sport of ultra running involves racing over distances in excess of the traditional marathon length of 26 miles and 385 yards. The most common types of ultra running races are over 50 or 100 miles, although many endurance athletes choose to see how far they can push themselves in a set timeframe.
Chris first caught the running bug in 1972 after being captivated by the Olympic Games in Munich and explained that his fascination with pushing himself to the limit began in 2005.
“I entered the Robin Hood Marathon in Nottingham and found it quite easy so I decided to try some longer distances,” said Chris.
Over the past four years Chris has completed a number of ultra distance races and his performances have shown continuous improvement, something Chris puts down to his use of Shotz Sports Nutrition.
“Obviously it is important that I take on board plenty of liquid during a race and I normally drink between five and six litres of fluid during the course of a 24-hour race,” he said.
“After looking at my nutritional plan I decided to start using Shotz Electrolyte Tablets and they have made a big difference to my performances.”
Shotz Electrolyte Tablets are effervescent tablets which dissolve quickly and easily in water. They help keep athletes hydrated and prevent cramping by delivering electrolytes which regulate fluid balance.
“I have also been using Shotz Carboshotz Energy Gels to keep my energy stores well-stocked and they are really easy to swallow and digest,” added Chris.
Shotz Carboshotz Energy Gels contain a combination of complex and simple carbohydrates to provide a fast-acting hit of sustained energy which helps athletes maintain optimum performance for longer.
After his colossal effort in Cumbria, Chris is hoping that his recent impressive performances will lead to him being selected for World 24-hour Challenge, due to be staged in the French city of Brive in May 2010.
The Shotz Sports Nutrition range, which includes Shotz Electrolyte Tablets and Carboshotz Energy Gels, is available fromwww.fitnessmonitors.com and www.josmarc.com.
SATURDAY, 10 OCTOBER 2009
WHARFEDALE & AIREDALE OBSERVER
Thursday 1 October 2009
Otley's Chris Carver is celebrating being England No 1.
The ultra-distance runner, whose successes are all the more remarkable because part of his right lung has been removed after he got testicular cancer, took part in a 24-hour race which was part of the inaugural Commonwealth Mountain and Ultra Running Championships in Keswick, Cumbria.
He was selected to represent England by virtue of the 141.9 miles he ran in a 24-hour race in London last October (he was also ranked No 2 in England for 2008).
In the Commonwealth Championships 24-Hour Race, there were 44 runners from New Zealand, Australia, Canada, Scotland, the Isle of Man, England, Wales and India.
The race was won by Australia’s Martin Fryer, who completed over 159 miles. Second was Jonathan Blake (Australia), 154.7, and third John Pares (Wales), 151.8. Chris ran a total of 143.8 miles for fifth place overall in his first championship race. Australia won the team gold, but Chris led England to silver medals ahead of Scotland.
Carver is now also No 3 in Europe [sic] and No 30 in the world, which is good news for his future selection for World, European and Commonwealth races.
Chris had an operation for testicular cancer in the 1990s, only to find three months later that the disease had spread to his lungs. He then underwent six months of chemotherapy, followed by an operation to remove part of his right lung.
Otley's Chris Carver is celebrating being England No 1.
The ultra-distance runner, whose successes are all the more remarkable because part of his right lung has been removed after he got testicular cancer, took part in a 24-hour race which was part of the inaugural Commonwealth Mountain and Ultra Running Championships in Keswick, Cumbria.
He was selected to represent England by virtue of the 141.9 miles he ran in a 24-hour race in London last October (he was also ranked No 2 in England for 2008).
In the Commonwealth Championships 24-Hour Race, there were 44 runners from New Zealand, Australia, Canada, Scotland, the Isle of Man, England, Wales and India.
The race was won by Australia’s Martin Fryer, who completed over 159 miles. Second was Jonathan Blake (Australia), 154.7, and third John Pares (Wales), 151.8. Chris ran a total of 143.8 miles for fifth place overall in his first championship race. Australia won the team gold, but Chris led England to silver medals ahead of Scotland.
Carver is now also No 3 in Europe [sic] and No 30 in the world, which is good news for his future selection for World, European and Commonwealth races.
Chris had an operation for testicular cancer in the 1990s, only to find three months later that the disease had spread to his lungs. He then underwent six months of chemotherapy, followed by an operation to remove part of his right lung.
WEDNESDAY, 15 JULY 2009
WHARFEDALE & AIREDALE OBSERVER
Thursday 9 July 2009
Accolade For Cancer Survivor's record run
OTLEY: A cancer survivor's amazing fundraising run to London has been officially honoured. Long distance runner Chris Carver completed the feat in just under 44 hours in May, raising more than £2000 for cancer charity Orchid in the process. Mr Carver was congratulated on his achievement by Leeds North West MP Greg Mulholland and Town Mayor Councillor Gerard Francis at a ceremony in the Civic Centre last Friday. Mr Mulholland, who presented Mr Carver with a copy of the Parliamentary motion he made to applaud the runner's efforts, said: "Heis an inspirational character and what he has achieved is incredible." Mr Carver, 45, underwent surgery for testicular and lung cancer in the 1990s and had part of his right lung removed.
Accolade For Cancer Survivor's record run
OTLEY: A cancer survivor's amazing fundraising run to London has been officially honoured. Long distance runner Chris Carver completed the feat in just under 44 hours in May, raising more than £2000 for cancer charity Orchid in the process. Mr Carver was congratulated on his achievement by Leeds North West MP Greg Mulholland and Town Mayor Councillor Gerard Francis at a ceremony in the Civic Centre last Friday. Mr Mulholland, who presented Mr Carver with a copy of the Parliamentary motion he made to applaud the runner's efforts, said: "Heis an inspirational character and what he has achieved is incredible." Mr Carver, 45, underwent surgery for testicular and lung cancer in the 1990s and had part of his right lung removed.
THURSDAY, 4 JUNE 2009
WHARFEDALE & AIREDALE OBSERVER
Thursday 4 June 2009
Chris sets record for Otley-London run
A cancer survivor has set an inaugural record for running from Yorkshire to London - and raised more than £1900 for charity.
Chris Carver completed the gruelling challenge in less than two days, leaving his home town of Otley at 9.00am on Saturday, May 23, and arriving at Trafalgar Square at 6am on Monday, May 25.
Months of training for the fundraiser - including night runs with a head torch - paid off as he covered the 218 miles of the route in just over 43 hours 16 minutes.
The run took his toll, though. Writing on his blog shortly after getting back to Otley, he said: "Everything seems twice as difficult as usual - even thinking is hard work today."
Chris, 45, underwent surgery for testicular and lung cancer in the 1990s and had part of his right lung removed. A keen runner, he came through that experience and went on to become one of the UK's best ultra-distance competitors.
He decided to organise the London run as a fund and awareness-raising venture for Orchid, a charity dedicated to preventing, diagnosing and treating male specific cancers.
He was helped by around 12 volunteers. Chris said: "My team of fantastic volunteers offered their time to help by either carrying food, drink, spare clothes and so on in their cars or by running or cycling sections with me, particularly during the night.
"The first day went very well indeed and I completed over 125 miles with no problems at all. The weather was dry and sunny, a big improvement on the previous few days rain and wind.
"The first day went very well indeed and I completed over 125 miles with no problems at all. The weather was dry and sunny, a big improvement on the previous few days rain and wind.
"The second day was a different story though. Temperatures soared to 23 degrees C by 9.30am and didn't drop below that for at least another ten hours.
"My pace wilted in the heat. Running over 200 miles is one thing, but doing up and down hills is something else. By late afternoon my helpers were buying me ice cream and refrigerated drinks in an effort to cool me down."
He revealed: "Three of his four targets were time based - I wanted to better the British records for 300 km and 200 miles, which are 34 hours, 26 minutes and 38 hours, 22 minutes respectively, and to establish an inaugural record of running from Leeds to London.
"I was disappointed to run 300 km in 39 hours, 22 minutes and 200 miles in 43 hours, 11 minutes but happy to finish with an inaugural record of 43 hours 16 minutes 31 seconds.
"My fourth target was to raise £2000 for Orchid. So far I've raised £1905.04 but I know there's more to come.
"I was disappointed to run 300 km in 39 hours, 22 minutes and 200 miles in 43 hours, 11 minutes but happy to finish with an inaugural record of 43 hours 16 minutes 31 seconds.
"My fourth target was to raise £2000 for Orchid. So far I've raised £1905.04 but I know there's more to come.
WEDNESDAY, 3 JUNE 2009
WORKSOP GUARDIAN
Friday 29 May 2009
Harriers helped Chris Carve way to London
The Worksop Harriers were part of an epic run for charity on Saturday.
Two of the club's runners provided a guard of honour to Otley man Chris Carver, as he ran from his home to London, a distance of 218 miles.
The ultra runner passed through Worksop on his way to the capital, and the Harriers' John Harrison wanted to help out.
He said: "Chris was someone we were aware of from 24 hour races that our own Steve Battle was taking part in."
"He emailed us looking for sponsorship, but because he was actually passing through Worksop I felt we could do a bit more than that."
Runners Caroline McGinley and Steve battle accompanied for 22 and 31 miles respectively.
John and Caroline's husband Alan were in a support vehicle, giving Chris anything he needed.
The Harriers picked him up at Conisborough at 4.20pm and were with him until 11.20pm, where they left him at Southwell.
John said: "He had put in an enormous amount of planning, working out exactly what he needed and when."
"So we drove ahead and directed him, and kept him topped up with water and fed him at regular intervals."
The Otley runner reached London at 6am on Monday morning, 45 hours after he began.
The run was in aid of Orchid, a charity that fights male cancers.
John added: "It must be a cause very close to his heart, he's had numerous operations for cancer and has had half a lung removed, so his achievement is remarkable."
Chris expressed his gratitude to the Harriers, saying: "Thanks to the members of Worksop Harriers for all their help with this."
"John Harrison seemed especially good at crewing for ultra runners, he was brilliant."
FRIDAY, 22 MAY 2009
BRADFORD TELEGRAPH & ARGUS
Thursday 21 May 2009
Chris sets out to run from Otley to London
A man who survived major surgery to become one of the UK’s top long-distance sportsmen will set off on an Otley to London fundraising run this weekend.
Chris Carver will embark on the 218-mile challenge, which will raise money for cancer charity Orchid. The cause is a very personal one for the 44-year-old who had surgery to remove testicular and lung cancer tumours in the 1990s.
Mr Carver, of Courthouse Street, Otley, has also got several records in his sights and hopes he may even be able to set an inaugural world record for a Leeds to London run.
The fundraiser is also aiming to raising awareness of the male specific cancers – testicular, penile and prostate – which men are sometimes too embarrassed to seek help for.
Anyone who would like to support Mr Carver, who is being assisted by a team of 12 volunteers, can donate viabmycharity.com/V2/otleytolondon or runto-london.blogspot.com. More details about Orchid can be found at orchidcancer.org.uk.
This also appeared in the Wharfedale & Airedale Observer on the same day.
Thursday 21 May 2009
Chris sets out to run from Otley to London
A man who survived major surgery to become one of the UK’s top long-distance sportsmen will set off on an Otley to London fundraising run this weekend.
Chris Carver will embark on the 218-mile challenge, which will raise money for cancer charity Orchid. The cause is a very personal one for the 44-year-old who had surgery to remove testicular and lung cancer tumours in the 1990s.
Mr Carver, of Courthouse Street, Otley, has also got several records in his sights and hopes he may even be able to set an inaugural world record for a Leeds to London run.
The fundraiser is also aiming to raising awareness of the male specific cancers – testicular, penile and prostate – which men are sometimes too embarrassed to seek help for.
Anyone who would like to support Mr Carver, who is being assisted by a team of 12 volunteers, can donate viabmycharity.com/V2/otleytolondon or runto-london.blogspot.com. More details about Orchid can be found at orchidcancer.org.uk.
This also appeared in the Wharfedale & Airedale Observer on the same day.
TUESDAY, 12 MAY 2009
INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF ULTRARUNNERS
posted on the above website - 6 May 2009
Week(end) Ultrawarrior --- A Journey of Significant Magnitude: Leeds to London (Nadeem Khan, 07 May)
At first read the journey that Christopher Carver is about to embark on would seem impossible and unattainable. But then you don’t really know him.
Christopher has had several ups and downs in his life. He moved from a healthy individual to being diagnosed with testicular cancer in 1990 to running again only to have to go back for treatments for lung cancer in 1993.
On 23rd May, Christopher is attempting a run from his hometown of Otley (10 miles north of Leeds) to London. This 218 mile run will test his mettle and his determination to complete the event.
In route, he will attempt to break the unofficial British records for 300km (34:26:29) and 200 miles (33:22:15). He is also in talks with the Guinness World Records (TM) to try and ratify this run from Leeds to London as an inaugural record.
Christopher is dedicating his run to raising money for Orchid which is an UK based charity aimed at raising funds for research and awareness into male specific cancers. Asked on what prompted his attempt, he says, “In November 2008 I read a blog by the American ultra runner Dan Rose, also a cancer survivor, who had ran 192 miles a few months earlier to raise money for a cancer charity. That got me thinking that perhaps I should try to raise some more money for a cancer charity in the UK.”
A humble person by nature, Christopher undermined his determination of being a survivor and his various onslaughts on ultrarunning records. He says, “My priorities definitely changed between 1990 and 1994 when I was having my operations and chemotherapy. Sometimes I just feel lucky to be able to run because I can clearly remember the times when running was impossible”
Christopher has every right to plan to break some of the existing records during his run. He is an elite runner to his own league. He ran 181 km in his first 24hr run in Tooting Bec, London in 2006. Armed with more knowledge about the full-day ultra runs, he went back in 2007 to win the Hull in 205 km. He followed this by a 228 km run in Tooting Bec, London [2008] finishing third in a very competitive race.
Attempting a multi-day run is never an easy task. When I asked him about the difficulties that he might endure in his run, he said, “Apart from the usual obstacles associated with ultra distance races (nutrition, lack of sleep, weather, etc) the other problems, for me at least, include running at night along unlit country roads, navigation, and toilet breaks.”
Every run that an athlete does is full of life lessons, things that they don’t teach in school. Christopher agrees and he says, “I am looking forward to exploring the limits of my endurance both physical and mental and trust will also play a large part of what I am doing. Trust between myself and my helpers.”
After attempting the run, Christopher has a pretty exciting series of runs that he wants to attempt during his ultrarunning career. Some of the races he wants to do include Indoor Spring 48 hr (Brno), Athens International Ultramarathon Festival, Basel 24 hr (Switzerland), Surgeres 48 hr (France), Self Transcendence 100km Paris, 100k Winschoten (Netherlands) and 100 km degli Etruschi (Italy) amongst several others.
Christopher, nothing but the best of luck to you as you embark on this journey of significant magnitude.
Nadeem Khan
Director of Communications
nadeem.khan@iau-ultramarathon.org
Disclaimer: This article is in the series of 'Week(end) UltraWarriors'. If you are or know someone who is planning on a challenging and enduring race, please feel free to contact me for a story. Please contact at least 3 weeks prior to the event.
posted on the above website - 6 May 2009
Week(end) Ultrawarrior --- A Journey of Significant Magnitude: Leeds to London (Nadeem Khan, 07 May)
At first read the journey that Christopher Carver is about to embark on would seem impossible and unattainable. But then you don’t really know him.
Christopher has had several ups and downs in his life. He moved from a healthy individual to being diagnosed with testicular cancer in 1990 to running again only to have to go back for treatments for lung cancer in 1993.
On 23rd May, Christopher is attempting a run from his hometown of Otley (10 miles north of Leeds) to London. This 218 mile run will test his mettle and his determination to complete the event.
In route, he will attempt to break the unofficial British records for 300km (34:26:29) and 200 miles (33:22:15). He is also in talks with the Guinness World Records (TM) to try and ratify this run from Leeds to London as an inaugural record.
Christopher is dedicating his run to raising money for Orchid which is an UK based charity aimed at raising funds for research and awareness into male specific cancers. Asked on what prompted his attempt, he says, “In November 2008 I read a blog by the American ultra runner Dan Rose, also a cancer survivor, who had ran 192 miles a few months earlier to raise money for a cancer charity. That got me thinking that perhaps I should try to raise some more money for a cancer charity in the UK.”
A humble person by nature, Christopher undermined his determination of being a survivor and his various onslaughts on ultrarunning records. He says, “My priorities definitely changed between 1990 and 1994 when I was having my operations and chemotherapy. Sometimes I just feel lucky to be able to run because I can clearly remember the times when running was impossible”
Christopher has every right to plan to break some of the existing records during his run. He is an elite runner to his own league. He ran 181 km in his first 24hr run in Tooting Bec, London in 2006. Armed with more knowledge about the full-day ultra runs, he went back in 2007 to win the Hull in 205 km. He followed this by a 228 km run in Tooting Bec, London [2008] finishing third in a very competitive race.
Attempting a multi-day run is never an easy task. When I asked him about the difficulties that he might endure in his run, he said, “Apart from the usual obstacles associated with ultra distance races (nutrition, lack of sleep, weather, etc) the other problems, for me at least, include running at night along unlit country roads, navigation, and toilet breaks.”
Every run that an athlete does is full of life lessons, things that they don’t teach in school. Christopher agrees and he says, “I am looking forward to exploring the limits of my endurance both physical and mental and trust will also play a large part of what I am doing. Trust between myself and my helpers.”
After attempting the run, Christopher has a pretty exciting series of runs that he wants to attempt during his ultrarunning career. Some of the races he wants to do include Indoor Spring 48 hr (Brno), Athens International Ultramarathon Festival, Basel 24 hr (Switzerland), Surgeres 48 hr (France), Self Transcendence 100km Paris, 100k Winschoten (Netherlands) and 100 km degli Etruschi (Italy) amongst several others.
Christopher, nothing but the best of luck to you as you embark on this journey of significant magnitude.
Nadeem Khan
Director of Communications
nadeem.khan@iau-ultramarathon.org
Disclaimer: This article is in the series of 'Week(end) UltraWarriors'. If you are or know someone who is planning on a challenging and enduring race, please feel free to contact me for a story. Please contact at least 3 weeks prior to the event.
SUNDAY, 8 FEBRUARY 2009
THURSDAY 5 FEBRUARY 2009
210-mile run is cancer survivor's biggest challenge (by Jim Jack, photo by Richard Leach)
Chris Carver has already overcome some of the most serious challenges a person can face by surviving both testicular and lung cancer.
Despite that, the successful runner says it is his next task, a 210-mile fundraising run from West Yorkshire to London, that will represent the biggest challenge of his life so far.
Chris Carver has already overcome some of the most serious challenges a person can face by surviving both testicular and lung cancer.
Despite that, the successful runner says it is his next task, a 210-mile fundraising run from West Yorkshire to London, that will represent the biggest challenge of his life so far.
Chris, 44, was diagnosed with testicular cancer on his 26th birthday in February, 1990 and had surgery to remove the tumour. Then, just three months later, he was told he had lung cancer, which led to chemotherapy and, finally, half of his right lung being removed.
Throughout it all, though, he tried to keep running and has gone on to become one of the country’s best ultra-distance runners. Now he is in training to put his sporting prowess to good use for cancer charity Orchid – and hopes to set two new British records in the process.
He said: “Orchid is the only UK registered charity to fund research and awareness into all three male specific cancers: penile, testicular and prostate. And as a testicular cancer survivor myself I’m very aware of the need to raise voluntary funds to enable Orchid to continue funding pioneering research into the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of these dreadful diseases.
“I started training for this on January 1, but I’ve been a runner for a long time anyway. As it is now almost certain that I’ll be taking part in the Commonwealth Ultra Running Championships in September, I need a challenge to keep me fit and motivated before then.
He said: “Orchid is the only UK registered charity to fund research and awareness into all three male specific cancers: penile, testicular and prostate. And as a testicular cancer survivor myself I’m very aware of the need to raise voluntary funds to enable Orchid to continue funding pioneering research into the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of these dreadful diseases.
“I started training for this on January 1, but I’ve been a runner for a long time anyway. As it is now almost certain that I’ll be taking part in the Commonwealth Ultra Running Championships in September, I need a challenge to keep me fit and motivated before then.
“So I am taking this challenge very seriously and I don’t want to let my sponsors down.”
Chris, of Courthouse Street, Otley, said: “I don’t think there are official records for the 300-kilometre and 200-mile distances but there are best times (34 hours, 26 minutes and 29 seconds and 38 hours, 22 minutes and 15 seconds, respectively) which I’m hoping to beat.”
On the website he has set up for the challenge – www.bmycharity.com/V2/ otleytolondon – Chris explains the motivation behind the run.
Chris, of Courthouse Street, Otley, said: “I don’t think there are official records for the 300-kilometre and 200-mile distances but there are best times (34 hours, 26 minutes and 29 seconds and 38 hours, 22 minutes and 15 seconds, respectively) which I’m hoping to beat.”
On the website he has set up for the challenge – www.bmycharity.com/V2/ otleytolondon – Chris explains the motivation behind the run.
He said: “This is my first major fundraising venture and will entail running from my home in Otley to London – a distance of over 200 miles. This massive undertaking will begin on Saturday, May 23.
“Back in the 1990s I developed testicular cancer (diagnosed on my 26th birthday). The offending article was removed and three months later I went back to hospital for a check-up only to be told I now had lung cancer.
“Panic set in for a few minutes followed by six months of chemotherapy and, two years later, an operation to remove about half of my right lung.
“I’ve been a runner since 1972 and during my ‘cancer phase’ it never occurred to me to stop. Obviously I ran less but came back stronger and fitter than ever.
“Please donate so that more men can, like me, survive cancer and realise their dreams. Whatever they may be.”
Chris has contacted Guinness World Records to see if he could set an inaugural record for running from Leeds to London. He has also been training with a head torch in preparation for the many hours of night running he will have to complete on the smaller, darker country roads.
Anyone who would like to support his efforts for Orchid can donate via bmycharity.com/V2/otleytolondon or run-to-london.blogspot.com.
Anyone who would like to support his efforts for Orchid can donate via bmycharity.com/V2/otleytolondon or run-to-london.blogspot.com.
More details on Orchid can be found at orchid-cancer.org.uk
This also appeared in the Bradford Telegraph & Argus on Friday 6 February
SATURDAY, 22 NOVEMBER 2008
YORKSHIRE EVENING POSTTHURSDAY 20 NOVEMBER 2008
I've been known to get the train – then run 50-miles home...
By Rob Stanworth (photo by Tony Johnson)
For most people, 30 minutes on a treadmill is long enough to leave them feeling shattered.
However, one member of Otley Athletics Club is a step away from guaranteeing his place in the inaugural ultrarunning Commonwealth Championships next year.Chris Carver only needs to complete one more ultra distance race – which is any race longer than a marathon – to prove his fitness after finishing third in a 24-hour race held in London last month, passing the tough qualifying standard of almost 140 miles (225km)."The chief timekeeper told me I had passed my personal best and I knew then that 140 miles was within my grasp," Carver said. "I remember breaking down in tears at 11.05 am, 23 hours after we had started, when i knew I was going to make the standard." The feat is made even more remarkable by the fact that Carver suffered from both testicular and lung cancer in the mid-1990s. He needed two operations, where part of his right lung was removed, and six months of chemotherapy followed."When I found out that I had cancer, I eased back a little bit, but it never entered my head to stop running," Carver revealed. "I think most of my personal bests have come since then, so it hasn't really affected me."I have been running since 1972 and I did a couple of marathons but didn't find them all that hard. I thought, 'what's the point?' So I started looking for the next challenge and took up ultrarunning."House-husband Carver, from Otley, admits that his family find him a little eccentric, as emphasised by his highly unusual, but adventurous, training routine."I have been known to get the train to York, or Dent on the Settle to Carlisle railway, and then run about 50 miles home," Carver explained."I do two long runs a week around the 25-mile mark and then, occasionally, do one at 40 miles just to keep me going."Running for 24 hours places a lot of strain on the body, something that Carver shrugs off as "mechanical wear and tear". He admits that it takes him a number of weeks to recover and says he is sometimes unable to walk for up to three days after an event due to muscle stiffness.After a good rest, next up for Carver is a European race in the spring to prove his fitness to the England selectors prior to the 24-hour Commonwealth race in Keswick, Cumbria. He also plans to use that race as an opportunity to raise money for a cancer charity, something that is naturally very close to his heart.For more information on ultrarunning, or sponsorship, please go to www.thoughtsofanultrarunner.blogspot.com
BRADFORD TELEGRAPH & ARGUS
THURSDAY 30 OCTOBER 2008
Carver goes the distance
By Sports Desk
Bradford-born Chris Carver, one of England’s top ultra-distance runners, is set to compete in the 2009 Commonwealth Championships.
The Otley AC ace secured his selection for the 24-hour race in Keswick next September by finishing third in a similar event in London.
Carver, who passed the tough qualifying standard of almost 140 miles (225km), was expected to finish fourth on paper but three other runners had unexpected races.
Jim Rogers and Ken Fancett should both have beaten him but Rogers developed a hip problem after around ten hours, while Fancett just had a bad day.
Eoin Keith of Ireland was the surprise package with a fantastic run which beat the Irish records for 100 miles, 200km and 24 hours. He finished second.
FRIDAY, 21 NOVEMBER 2008
THURSDAY 30 OCTOBER 2008
Ultra distance runner heads for Commonwealth Championships
By Rachel O'Connor (photo by Alan Young)
By Rachel O'Connor (photo by Alan Young)
OTLEY’S Chris Carver has become one of England’s top ultra distance runners despite battling ill health. Chris suffered from testicular cancer and then lung cancer which required two operations and a six months of chemotherapy but he has battled back and has now almost guaranteed his selection for next year’s Commonwealth Championships The event he plans to take part in is a 24 hour race to be held in Keswick next September. He secured his selection by finishing third in a 24 hour race in London and passing the tough qualifying standard of almost 140 miles (225 km).
On paper he should have finished fourth but three other runners had unexpected races. Jim Rogers and Ken Fancett should have beaten him but Jim developed a hip problem and Ken had a bad day. Irishman Eoin Keith spoilt the party with his fantastic run which beat the Irish records for 100 miles, 200km and 24 hours as he finished second.
Chris, who runs for Otley Athletic Club, is grateful to fellow club member Carl Walsh and his The Divan Centre in Leeds for showing tremendous faith in his abilities and agreeing to pay his travel and hotel expenses for the race in London.
Chris said: “I am sure there are other businesses who would like the opportunity to be associated with an international athlete. In return I would gladly wear their logo/name on my kit in races and training runs and put it on my website. I would be willing to do any promotional work/advertising they may require.
“Success could lead to lots of press coverage. Anyone who can help in any way should visit my website at thoughtsofanultrarunner.blogspot.com or ring me on 01943 468109”.
With the England team to be selected in June he now has the task of completing at least one ultra distance race in spring to prove his fitness and show the selectors that he is injury free.
He is looking to take part in a spring time European race and raise money for charity at the same time. Full details will be announced shortly but late April or early May seems to be most likely.
YORKSHIRE EVENING POST
SATURDAY 6 SEPTEMBER 2008
Carver aims to take the ultra test
By Lee Sobot
Never mind Paula Radcliffe and her marathons – Bradford-born Chris Carver is targeting an ultra marathon at the 2009 Commonwealth Championships.
Next year will see the Championship's inaugural running held at Keswick and that's good news for Carver who is ranked number one in the UK for 24 hour races.Unfortunately for Carver the qualification criteria has been set at 225km (139.8 miles) and his best of 221 km (137.7 miles) leaves him just short.Seeking qualification, Carver will take part in October's 24-hour race at Tooting Bec in London but opportunities in Britain are few and far between with just two 24 hour races a year and three over 100km.Around 40 such races take place over the continent but this means mass travel and spiralling expenses for Carver, only sponsored so far by Carl Walsh's The Divan Centre, on Eastgate, Leeds.Carver desperately hopes to qualify for the championship but admits a lack of funding makes it incredibly tricky."My main expenses are three fold: travel and hotel expenses, race entry fees and sports drinks and nutrition," said Carver."Last year, for a 24-hour race in Hull I camped on the grass infield and for another in London I went down on the day of the race and came straight back home afterwards."Carver is now desperately seeking sponsorship and is sure financial backing would boost his performance significantly to make it worth any interested company's while.He added: "It seems obvious to me that I could do so much better racing after a decent night's sleep in a proper bed."For further information Chris can be contacted at chris.carver@ btopenworld.com or on 01943 468109.
SATURDAY 6 SEPTEMBER 2008
Carver aims to take the ultra test
By Lee Sobot
Never mind Paula Radcliffe and her marathons – Bradford-born Chris Carver is targeting an ultra marathon at the 2009 Commonwealth Championships.
Next year will see the Championship's inaugural running held at Keswick and that's good news for Carver who is ranked number one in the UK for 24 hour races.Unfortunately for Carver the qualification criteria has been set at 225km (139.8 miles) and his best of 221 km (137.7 miles) leaves him just short.Seeking qualification, Carver will take part in October's 24-hour race at Tooting Bec in London but opportunities in Britain are few and far between with just two 24 hour races a year and three over 100km.Around 40 such races take place over the continent but this means mass travel and spiralling expenses for Carver, only sponsored so far by Carl Walsh's The Divan Centre, on Eastgate, Leeds.Carver desperately hopes to qualify for the championship but admits a lack of funding makes it incredibly tricky."My main expenses are three fold: travel and hotel expenses, race entry fees and sports drinks and nutrition," said Carver."Last year, for a 24-hour race in Hull I camped on the grass infield and for another in London I went down on the day of the race and came straight back home afterwards."Carver is now desperately seeking sponsorship and is sure financial backing would boost his performance significantly to make it worth any interested company's while.He added: "It seems obvious to me that I could do so much better racing after a decent night's sleep in a proper bed."For further information Chris can be contacted at chris.carver@ btopenworld.com or on 01943 468109.
Thursday 21 August 2008
Chris is an ultra man
By Rachel O'Connor
By Rachel O'Connor
Chris Carver, of Otley, is certainly a name to look out for over the next few years in running circles. Well, he would be if his event were on the Olympic programme. He is an ultra distance runner and competes in races longer than a standard marathon.
In 2009 there is going to be, for the first time ever, a Commonwealth Championship for ultra distance races. The two races (100 km and 24 hours) will be held in Keswick in the Lake District.
At present Chris is ranked number one in the UK for 24 hour races but the qualification criteria has been set at 225 km (139.8 miles) whereas his best is 221 km (137.7 miles) so he needs to improve a bit yet to ensure selection - and this is where sponsorship would help.
His main expenses are three-fold: travel and hotel expenses; race entry fees; sports drinks and nutrition.
Chris said: "If a local business were to cover, for example, the cost of my travel and/or accommodation expenses it would make things much easier to get to races in mainland Europe. This is necessary because at present there are only two 24 hour races in the UK and three 100 km races, in the rest of Europe there are at least 40 of each.
"During a 24 hour race I would normally drink over 12 litres of isotonic sports drink and then there is all the liquid Ie consume while training (a 40 mile training run is not uncommon) and recovery drinks afterwards. Again, the cost of this is not negligible.
"Last year, for a 24 hour race in Hull I camped on the grass infield, for another in London I went down on the day of the race and came straight back home afterwards. For a 50 mile cross-country race in Rotherham I slept on the floor of the sports centre which was the race HQ.
"I could do so much better racing after a decent night's sleep in a proper bed," said Chris.
In return for a sponsor's patronage he would gladly wear their logo/name on his kit during every race he takes part in. He would also put their logo and weblink on his website and be willing to make himself available for any promotional work/advertising they may require.
Success, although not guaranteed, could lead to lots of press coverage.
His website address is thoughtsofanultrarunner.blogspot.com At present The Divan Centre, a shop on Eastgate, Leeds owned by fellow runner Carl Walsh, is his sole sponsor and he is more than grateful for the help he has provided this year with some travel and hotel costs.
His priority for the next six months is seeking qualification for the Commonwealth Championships and his next attempt will come at a 24 hour race at Tooting Bec in London on October 18/19.
The 24 hour event (covering the greatest distance possible in 24 hours) is one of the oldest established athletic events.
The first recognised 24 hour race took place on the Newmarket to London Turnpike, England in 1806.
The 24 hour race is now the longest annual world title event endorsed by the International Association of Ultrarunners (IAU) and recognised by the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF).
This also appeared in the Wharfedale and Airedale Observer on Thursday 21 August 2008.
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