Farming siblings take on epic endurance challenge

A brother and sister from a farming family are set to become the first to cross the British Isles using only human power in an extraordinary endurance challenge raising money for the Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution (Rabi).

Hugh and Alex Addison from Cumbria, together with friends Matt Blott and Will Sawday, will cycle, swim and run more than 550km from the Atlantic coast of Ireland to the North Sea in a world-first effort.

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The Borderline Challenge begins in Sligo with a cycle ride across the island to Belfast, followed by a 35km swim of the Irish Sea, a cycle through Scotland, and a run across England to the finish line at Tynemouth.

The journey combines 400km of cycling, 35km of swimming and 115km of running, and takes place from 13 to 18 September.

© The Borderline Challenge

Supporters are invited to join them on different legs of the route.

“Growing up in a farming family within a tight-knit agricultural community, we’re equally passionate about raising awareness and funds for mental health support in the rural communities we call home,” the Addisons said.

The team is already 96% towards its £10,000 fundraising target for Rabi, which provides vital financial assistance, mental health resources and practical help to farming families across England and Wales.

“This challenge isn’t just about testing our endurance, it’s about supporting a cause close to our hearts.

“We’re raising funds for Rabi, who provide mental health support to those in rural communities.”

Mental health remains a critical issue in agriculture, with studies showing around a third of farmers are “probably or possibly depressed” and nearly half reporting anxiety, according to Rabi research.

In preparation, Alex completed the Great North Swim in Windermere, while Hugh ran the Edinburgh Marathon.

“It’s certainly been pretty insane to be doing these huge undertakings as components of the main challenge, but it all helps,” they said.

Supporters can donate to their fundraiser or join them on their journey.