A serviceman at RAF Lossiemouth is preparing to don his running vest once again as part of a gruelling marathon challenge.
Corporal Jon Ward, who is a logistics mover at the Moray base, has set himself the ambitious target of running 100 26-mile races to mark the centenary of the formation of the air force.
And tomorrow, the 32-year-old will line up for the start of his 99th endurance challenge, the Scottish Borders Marathon in Glentress.
It means Corporal Ward remains on target to complete his 100th course at Gravesend, in Kent, in April on the RAF’s 100th birthday.
The running enthusiast has completed courses in 17 different countries during the ambitious project – including the original marathon course in Greece and on the Falkland Islands while on deployment.
He said: “It’s hard to believe that I’m nearing the end of it.
“I got my official 100 marathon vest delivered the other day, which is pretty exciting. It’s all starting to feel quite real that the end is in sight. I can’t wait to wear it with pride.
“It’s been an amazing journey. When I started back in May 2016 I didn’t think I would achieve a sub-three hour pace at any point. So when I ran a 2:59 back in December I was ecstatic.”
Despite nearing the end of his 100-run target, Corporal Ward has insisted he has no intention of hanging up his running shoes.
The RAF man has already signed up for both the Paris and London marathons later in the year as well as the eye-watering Great Britain ultra marathon – which spans 214 miles following the Southern Upland Way from Portpatrick, near Stranraer, to Cockburnspath, about 30 miles north of Berwick.
The serviceman has already raised more than £1,400 for the RAF Benevolent Fund since embarking on the feat.
During the last two years, the group has donated £500,000 to Lossiemouth projects, including backing for an artificial football pitch, counselling sessions and upgrades to a play area.
John Trampleasure, director of fundraising for the fund, said: “Without the generous support of people like Jon, we wouldn’t be able to do the work we do.
“His commitment and boundless energy has helped him take on a huge feat and we’re incredibly grateful.”
