716 participants ensure record-breaking Med Steps 5 Challenge

716 braved this year’s Med Steps 5 Challenge, shattering attendance figures for previous years.

In its 11th edition, the event was again organised by Mark Cooper, supported by his colleagues at the Prison Service.

It raised money and awareness for Cancer Relief.

Radio Gibraltar held a roadshow which was visualised for GBC television. It was presented by Robin Sheppard-Capurro and Stefan Borge, who said there was a real, feel-good community feel at Jews’ Gate. As the music blasted out from the Pillars of Hercules, there was dancing, spirits were high.

Participants attempted to walk or run the Mediterranean Steps. Many aimed for three laps, fitness junkies did five. They took on the steep climb across the morning and early afternoon, with temperatures edging up in the sun. The fragrant and beautiful wild flowers, together with the spectacular views of the Strait, Spain and Morocco, distracted them from their aching muscles, as they made their way up to O’Hara’s Battery, 419m above sea level, at the top of the Rock.

Edd Valatka was the first to complete five laps, doing so in just in 1hr 54 mins. He told Radio Gibraltar his recent cycle ride to Cordoba and back had helped him prepare physically. Edd regularly undertakes gruelling challenges to raise money for different charities, staying on to cheer on other participants.

Faye Morse was the first woman across the line. She celebrated with a victory lap of the course, her sixth - fitting for a runner who recently completed the London Marathon dressed as Wonder Woman.

Despite being a physically challenging course, the event attracted people from all ages and backgrounds. Aged 87, Kenneth Johnson was the oldest participant, completing two laps. Aged just one, Cory was the youngest - completing his laps with parental supervision (and some carrying).

After pushing their legs hard, participants refuelled with drinks, Dominos pizza & hotdogs.

Cancer Relief said the support for the Med Steps 5 Challenge was “absolutely incredible”, thanking every single person who took part on Saturday, or helped to make it such a successful event.

The charity said it’s impressive that Mark Cooper and his team have managed to grow the event every year.

Mark thanked everyone who took part and said it wouldn’t be possible without the help of sponsors The Sovereign Group, Chestertons, Image Graphics and LiveScore.