How ‘fear of getting old’ motivates 76-year-old runner who set a record in 250km Sahara Desert race
- Harry Hunter became the oldest Briton to cross the finish line of the 2024 Marathon des Sables, a 250km race that coincided with his 76th birthday
- He safeguards his longevity and vitality by healthy eating – including lots of bananas – and ‘hard training’. He’s targeting another ultra race in six months
Amid the vast expanse of the Sahara Desert, Harry Hunter celebrated his 76th birthday in late April in a manner that defied convention.
Far from the comforts of his UK home, Hunter swapped the companionship of friends and family for the company of the occasional camel, and birthday cake for freeze-dried meals.
On the day itself, he woke to face a gruelling 40km-plus run across the scorching sands.
Training hard and mental strength are two of the key factors that keep me motivated at my age
Hunter is no ordinary septuagenarian. His spirit is one defined by bravery and resilience. Electing to mark his birthday by participating in the ultra-marathon, Hunter entered the echelons of history.
He not only endured but flourished, crossing the finish line in 507th position among over 800 participants, and becoming the oldest Briton to complete this desert odyssey.
Hunter’s journey was not solely for personal glory; he raised £5,700 (US$7,100) for the Alexander Devine Children’s Hospice Service in Berkshire, England.
In an interview with the Post, Hunter highlighted the role of motivation in his pursuit of endurance.
“Training hard and mental strength are two of the key factors that keep me motivated at my age,” he says, underlining the importance of discipline and a strong mindset.
“The fear of getting old is one of the most motivating factors that keep me going.”
Fuelled by a desire to surpass his previous exploits, Hunter remains steadfast in his quest to maintain peak performance and make a difference in the world.
He says he was running the desert race striving to raise as much as he could for his favourite charity.
This commitment underscores a profound sense of purpose that propels him forward.
When I’m running I don’t feel the pressure or stress
“When I’m running I don’t feel the pressure or stress,” he confides. In the rhythmic cadence of his footsteps, Hunter finds solace and rejuvenation on the road and, as shown, in the desert.
Looking to the future, Hunter harbours aspirations of conquering new frontiers, including an arduous 220km ultra-marathon in the Nevada desert in the United States scheduled for October.
According to its website, the Ultra X Nevada “is a gruelling multi-day ultra-marathon” that “challenges competitors with its diverse terrains and elevations, offering extraordinary views and a test of true endurance”.
Less than six months from now, Hunter will board a plane bound for the western US state with every intention of finishing the race strongly, resolute in his determination to test the limits of his endurance.
