Dad completes 4x4x48 challenge for Cystic Fibrosis Trust

Andy Owens, from Nutgrove, completed the 4x4x48 challenge, to help those with cystic fibrosis.

Andy had been in training last year to complete his first marathon in April 2020 in Manchester before the pandemic saw it get cancelled.

Andy then stopped running but a turning point came when he was recommended an audiobook by American ultramarathon runner David Goggins, called Can't Hurt Me.

After listening, Andy was more driven than ever and have since completed four marathons and and an ultra-marathon (50k) run too.

Andy, who works for Oak Tyres in Newton-le-Willows, has gone from being in excess of 18 stone in weight to less than 16 stone and aims to be 14 stone by this June.

Andy Owens

Andy, 37, decided to take on the mammoth challenge of four miles every four hours, for a period of 48 hours.

He completed the feat in aid of the Cystic Fibrosis Trust, which he was hoping to raise money for at the Manchester Marathon.

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The cause is particularly important to Andy as his sister-in-law Tracy passed away from the disease in 2012.

After completing the challenge, Andy admitted he had underestimated how difficult it would be and that it posed "a real struggle, mentally and physically" but added "I suppose the don’t call it a challenge for nothing".

Andy Owens

His wife Clair's sisters, Joanne and Nicola, joined him for most of the challenge, running together around 30 metres behind him.

Ahead of the challenge, Andy had said to the Star: "Running has definitely helped my life in a lot of ways, mainly helping me to relax as I have a lot of time by myself, and in a kind of way I meditate while I’m running.

"It has enhanced my outlook on life which has helped my work life and home life, I believe I’m a better father, husband, and worker due to running."

"The David Goggins book has taught me not to give up, even at the point where you feel you cannot go on. You are only at 40 per cent of your potential.

"It is more than motivation, it makes you driven. It make you want to go and run in the freezing rain as that’s where you are uncomfortable and that is where you mind gets stronger.

"The Cystic Fibrosis Trust was there when Tracy died back in 2012 and did an amazing job for her," added Andy, who is married to wife Clair.

The couple also have a five-year-old son, Jacob.

"Jacob is the reason I started running, I want to be healthier for him," added Andy.

• To donate to the cause, click here .