The Hardest Geezer talks his African adventure

“The Hardest Geezer” spoke to GMB on ITV…

Today on Good Morning Britain, Russ Cook, also known as “The Hardest Geezer” joined alongside GMB’s Jonathan Swain live from Tunisia for his first live interview after crossing the final finish line yesterday which saw him become the first man to ever run the entire length of Africa. The 29-year-old English marathon runner began the incredible journey just over a year ago and has since covered over 16,000 kilometres across 16 countries.

Speaking live to GMB hosts Kate Garraway and Ed Balls, Russ said: “It was quite overwhelming yesterday to be honest with you. There’s so many people here – it’s amazing to have so much support… I had a good party last night, woke up a little bit frosty and a little bit tired but I’m just trying to soak it all in and really try to enjoy it. The thought of not running today is a bit of a mad one as well as that’s not been the case for the last year.”  

Reflecting on his incredible journey over the last year, he said: “There’s been a lot of moments. There were so many times where I was joined by groups of people running which is always amazing – the energy of a group of people running together, you just can’t beat. Most of this journey was done by myself and I remember plenty of times running alone in the desert at night, sandstorms beating me up pretty good and you know, having music on in the ears and just screaming my lungs out. It’s quite hard to really contemplate the whole thing at the moment.”

Responding to Ed asking if there was ever a moment he thought that he would not be able to carry on, Russ replied: “Nah. Nah, I always knew it was inevitable. I just needed to keep plugging away one step at a time and eventually it would get done.”

With a strawberry daiquiri in hand, Russ was finally reunited with his girlfriend at the finish line after being apart for 14 months. “It was crazy… you can’t really put into words how much that moment meant. It’s been beautiful to have a little bit of time with her so far and we’re gonna go off tonight and box ourselves in so we can spend some time together.”

Finally, responding to Ed asking what’s next, “the north to the south of America?” Russ said: “I am not sure that’s difficult enough. We will have a scout around the map and see what’s on the horizon.” 

Since starting his journey 352 days ago, Russ has raised more than £700,000 for two charities, The Running Charity and Sandblast. The Hardest Geezer, Russ Cook will be live in the Good Morning Britain studio on Wednesday 10th April to continue the celebrations.

Good Morning Britain weekdays from 6am on ITV1 & ITVX