A LOCAL Monmouth man is taking on an ultramarathon in aid of Dementia UK, a charity close to his heart.

Simon Jones is beginning the course from Hay on Wye to Monmouth on Saturday September 26, looking to take on an early start at 7am where he is running 50km.

Dementia UK is a charity close to his heart after his mother passed away because of Dementia and he has close family and friends who were also affected by it.

A target of £1000 has been set and it is already on track having already raised £250. Dementia UK has specialist nurses, also known as Admiral Nurses to support families’ care for their loved ones who may have Dementia and who can provide free, expert advice.

The training preparation has begun and Simon has received a lot of support so far, including encouragement from Ludus gym, who have been helping him through his training progression. They have been providing exercise plans, whilst ensuring his strength is ready for the day.

Simon has wanted to take part in a marathon for the last few years and now he gets to do this by supporting a cause which means a lot to him.

“I did a Facebook post the other day and I did a little video about it and I started crying as I was making it,” said Simon.

“This means a lot to me.”

His friends are helping him along the way to ensure everything is running smoothly, who are experienced in taking part in marathons and running activities.

“My goal is to keep as fit as I can, keep strong, and keep injury free. I know I am going to be very emotional coming over the line I can just feel it,” added Simon.

Being out in nature is something which Simon enjoys, he runs a community walking group that supports physical and mental wellbeing, and is now pushing himself even further by training for this ultramarathon.

He said he has never taken on a ultramarathon before but has taken part in several fitness activities.

“I’ve done a 20-mile race in the black mountains around three of four years ago and a couple of off-road half marathons.”

With training in preparation he is starting to feel the excitement even more and is hoping by taking part in this challenge it might lead to future opportunities.

Looking ahead, Simon has given his advice to people who are looking to set themselves the challenge.

“Don’t concentrate so much on the running, concentrate on getting strong and spending time on your feet.”

Taking on an ultramarathon like this comes with its challenges, but looking positively Simon has shared that splitting the miles and setting mini goals can help ease the entirety of the distance.

“Even If I had to limp the last 15 miles I will still get to the finish.”