An ultra-runner’s attempt to break the world record for the fastest person to run the length of Africa is in jeopardy after facing safety issues that have halted his progress. Keith Boyd, a British-South African, has been running from Cape Town, South Africa, to Cairo, Egypt, for 270 days.
Security issues in northern Ethiopia have stalled Boyd’s journey, with him being held at gunpoint and narrowly avoiding being kidnapped on three separate occasions. Despite these challenges, Boyd remains determined to complete his mission.
Boyd is running for a non-profit organization that encourages young people in South Africa to vote. He has now launched a petition urging the Ethiopian government to allow him to run his final 500km across the country and ensure his run is officially recognized by Guinness World Records.
The current world record holder, Russell Cook, faced similar setbacks during his run across Africa, including being robbed at gunpoint. Boyd aims to beat Cook’s record by about 30 days and hopes to complete his challenge on 7 May.
“It’s down to the Ethiopians now. They’re going to decide whether I can get this record or not. It’s 100% in their hands,” Boyd said. Despite the challenges he has faced, Boyd remains optimistic and encourages others to push their limits, stating, “If I, an overweight 57-year-old, can break a 26-year standing record in one of the toughest endurance challenges out there in the world, just imagine what you could do if you put your mind to it.”