Swansea-based boxer, Ewan Rees, is more used to gym work and running shorter distances. But from June 1st, he’ll put his endurance to the test, by tackling the entire border of Wales.
Starting out from Swansea, the army reservist will cover the Welsh coastline and the English border, before returning to Swansea after completing the whole loop, a challenge he expects to take him around 2 months.
Ewan will be joined by his boxing coach, David John, 60, who will cycle alongside him as they cover between 10 to 20 miles each day.
“Losing my Bampa is something that has stayed with me, and this is my way of turning that loss into something positive.”
Ewan
Running for a reason
Ewan’s inspiration for his daunting challenge is his Bampa (grandpa) Wynford Bater, who died from a brain tumour in 2020. Ewan said: “I was very close to my Bampa. He was a very smart man, and after he was diagnosed in January 2020, it was tough to watch him slowly deteriorating.
“I discovered sport, and boxing, after his death. I was actually quite overweight when he was around. I think he’d be very proud of me for doing this, although he’d probably also tell me I was mad!
“Every mile I run is for him, and every donation will go towards supporting The Brain Tumour Charity and the vital work they do in research, support, and awareness.”
Dream team: running the border of Wales together
Ewan will have the support of his boxing coach of four years, David, who will tackle the same miles by bike. The pair plan to travel in a campervan for the duration of the challenge.
Ewan said: “Boxing is my life. I work at the boxing gym, as well as train there. David and I are used to each other’s company – we’re together six days a week.
“My experience with the army reserves has also given me some idea what to expect! If I’m honest, though, there are parts I am dreading – especially the hills! But I know if I take it slow and steady, and make time to stretch and rest, and eat well, I will be able to do this.
“During these long miles, I know I will have to confront things I’ve shoved to the back of my mind. I don’t think I’ve ever properly faced up to losing my Bampa. But I’m really looking forward to it. I’ve always found that testing myself physically is the best way to deal with emotional challenge too.”
Ewan will share daily updates from his run, as he passes through towns and coastal communities across Wales. Friends and family will catch up with him at some of the checkpoints, and he also hopes to connect with members of other boxing gyms along the route. “I’d like my run to raise awareness of boxing and its benefits, too. Boxing’s been a huge positive for me. It brings people off the streets, keeps them out of trouble, and helps them develop a lifelong skill.”
You can find out more about Ewan running the entire border of Wales here:
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