Jeremy Ellis Autumn 100

Charlie Waller supporter Jeremy Ellis has taken on the epic challenge of running 100 miles – the equivalent of London to Leicester - in one day – in support of the Trust.

Jeremy is taking part in the Autumn 100 – a continuous trail race based in Goring and Streatley on the River Thames. As well as enduring the distance, Jeremy will face up to 13 hours of darkness and the possibility of low temperatures and wet and windy conditions during the race on 16 October. 

Jeremy Ellis running and smiling, wearing Charlie Waller t-shirt

Jeremy has only 100 days left of training to get ready for the biggest distance he has ever run which is equivalent to 200,000 steps in a day.

Inspired by wanting to support young people’s mental health, particularly after the impact of the pandemic, Jeremy hopes his efforts will encourage others to get outdoors.

Jeremy Ellis smiling on training run, wearing Charlie Waller t-shirt, with hill view

“It's really tough for those young people who have had stressful exams and other challenging stuff going on their lives over the last year. They won't have been able to do all the sports, adventures and challenges that would help release the pressure. I hope people to see my challenge as encouragement to take on their own adventures this summer,” Jeremy said.

Jeremy is also hoping others will join him in his training: “I’m determined to savour the journey to the start line,“ he said. ”I’m hoping to meet up with loads of different people in the next 100 days to train with them, to help them plan adventures and to talk about wellbeing. Get in touch if you fancy a run or a bike ride to talk over an adventure you’re thinking about. Or if you’re just feeling low and you want to get out there.”

There is evidence that exercise can bring positive mental health benefits by boosting sleep and energy levels, which is something Jeremy says he has experienced since taking up running about ten years ago.

Clare Stafford, our Chief Executive, said: “We are so incredibly fortunate to have supporters like Jeremy who are prepared to go the extra mile in support of Charlie Waller. Jeremy is taking on an awe-inspiring challenge which involves an amazing commitment in terms of the training and the event itself. We are so grateful to Jeremy and wish him all the very best of luck in the Autumn 100.”

Read an update on Jeremy's journey here.