Historical past was made on Sunday on the Nice North Run in Newcastle, U.Okay., as a 102-year-old World Struggle II veteran accomplished the 21.1-kilometre race, changing into the oldest individual to complete a half-marathon.

Invoice Cooksey, initially from Wales however now residing in Newton Aycliffe, not removed from Newcastle, accomplished the race in 5 hours and 41 minutes, accompanied by his strolling accomplice and pal, Gavin Iceton.

A real inspiration. 💙

At 102 years outdated, Invoice Cooksey has crossed the AJ Bell #GreatNorthRun! 👏

Large congratulations, Invoice! 🙌 pic.twitter.com/Ssu1cShr6e

— Nice Run (@Great_Run) September 10, 2023

Cooksey, a former English trainer and a member of the Royal Air Drive (RAF), ready for the large day by strolling 10 kilometres every week. He and his workforce battled unfavourable circumstances on race day as heavy rain started pouring in the course of the latter half of his race.

“I want we didn’t should undergo all that rain–however we did it,” Cooksey advised The Each day Mail.

In line with The Each day Mail, Cooksey served with the RAF from 1941 to 1951. The centenarian took on the half-marathon as a brand new problem after already finishing many of the long-distance hikes in northern England. His aim was to lift roughly £1,500 (CAD $2,540) to help County Durham and Darlington Nationwide Well being Service (NHS) Belief. He has at present raised £1,588, with extra donations but to be counted.

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This spectacular feat is just not the primary time Cooksey has taken on endurance challenges for charity. For his a hundredth birthday, he walked 100 miles over 10 days and cycled 1,000 miles for his one hundred and first birthday, showcasing his dedication to supporting causes near his coronary heart.