An amateur runner from Wilmslow was part of the team Europe north who won the largest single running challenge in the world this week.
James MacDonald, 46, of Grosvenor Close, was selected as the sole UK amateur runner to participate in the ASICS Beat the Sun Event.
Eight international relay teams set out at sunrise from Chamonix on the longest day of the year to run around Mont Blanc and return before sunset. 15 hrs 41 mins to traverse 140km with 8500m of ascent over alpine, trail and road through snow, ice, mud, rocks and rivers.
Only two of teams succeeded in natures toughest relay, Team Europe South managed to Beat the Sun, and James' team Europe North who completed who beat the sun by a record 51 minutes.
Each team consisted of three professionals and three amateurs.
James explained "I ran legs 2 and 7 of the 12 leg event, arguably the toughest for the amateurs. Leg 2 consisted of 8.5km, the first half was a 750m ascent followed by a tricky descent over ice, snow, mud, rocks and streams. There was a 100m steep ice slope that I ran, slid and tumbled down without any elegance!
"I fell a couple of times on the switchback rocky route down but bounced up each time, with a few scratches and bruises to remind me. I had a few hours to recover and refuel before tackling leg 7 which was a short 6k climb of 1000m. It was brutal and without many opportunities to run but I kept going as I wanted to beat the sun and do my best for the team.
"We were in second place, 4 minutes behind the leaders when I completed leg 7, but my team were awesome and within a couple of legs had taken a substantial lead. Crossing the line as winners is something that I hoped for but beyond my expectations. I haven't stopped smiling since that moment and I am very proud to be part of the team."
The IT consultant and father of two added "The event by ASICS is such a wonderful celebration of running and an incredible experience. It was a once in a lifetime opportunity that I am very grateful for.
"Chamonix is such a beautiful town and I can't wait to return. Running on alpine and trail routes is completely different to the road and so much more fun. If you currently run on roads then I highly recommend mixing it up."
James is a keen amateur athlete who enjoys running, cycling, swimming and hitting the gym. Having recovered from cancer in his 30's he has gone on to complete a variety of tough sporting challenges, including long distance bike rides and two marathons.
He has been married to Helen for 15 years and has two daughters Charlotte and Jessica, is also Run Director at the weekly Wilmslow Junior Parkrun and a member of the Wilmslow Running Club.
Photo: Team Europe North with James MacDonald centre.
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