Paralympic star completes record attempt at Stoke Mandeville Stadium
Spanish Paralympian Javi Conde has achieved his record-breaking goal to run a marathon in all 28 cities that have hosted the Olympic and Paralympic games, after completing 26.2 miles (105 laps) at Stoke Mandeville Stadium on Sunday (10 July).
Javi was accompanied by seven other athletes including fellow Paralympian Xavi Maltas and athlete Jon Salvador.
Also joining Javi and representing the Vale of Aylesbury Athletic Club was 14-year-old athlete Rebecca Lee, who managed to run the entire marathon with the group.
Town Mayor of Aylesbury, Cllr Barbara Russel who started the marathon said: “It was a privilege and honour to start Javi off on this final challenge.
“Despite typical British weather, it did not dampen the spirit of the day.It was lovely to meet Javi and his team, who have supported him on this journey.
“I am very pleased that Javi managed to complete his challenge and that local athletes from Aylesbury had the opportunity to run and meet such a dedicated Olympian.”
The race took place in a friendly and celebratory atmosphere and ended a project of seven years aiming to help disadvantaged kids and families.
A delighted Javi said “I am extremely grateful to my family and all the friends that have helped me the last years to complete this project. Hope is what motivates me and the injuries will not stop us from continuing helping more people in the future by means of the marathons.
This last marathon would have been impossible without the invaluable help of local people and organisations like EJM Events Ltd, Stoke Mandeville Stadium, International Wheelchair and Ampute Sports Federation and officials.”
Jon Salvador, Javi’s fellow athlete said: “We now challenge anyone with a crazy idea to suggest an unusual place for us run. We have already done marathons on a transporter bridge, running 1300 laps on a boat and in a tunnel. We keep looking for amazing and new places that will take us to the limit, so do not hesitate to send us your challenge.”