Dad to take on Tough Mudder challenge for Hastings charity

Brave Chris Salmon, 56, will be taking part in the Tough Mudder in Yorkshire this weekend in a bid to raise funds for the Martha Trust.

Tough Mudder is a 10-12 mile mud and obstacle course designed to drag participants out of their comfort zone by testing physical strength, stamina, and mental grit.

The obstacles are notoriously difficult, with names like Arctic Enema and Electroshock Therapy giving some clue as to the challenges faced by those taking part.

Chris, who lives in Elphinstone Road, said: “It’s a ten to 12 mile course and it has around 20 obstacles.

“There’s ice baths, climbs, there’s an electric shock thing you have to go through, barbed wire and bits and pieces.

“You could not go around doing it on your own. You have to do it as a pair or work as a team to get through it.”

Luckily Chris will be joined by his 24-year-old son Greg, from Tunbridge Wells, who signed the pair up for the challenge.

Chris said: “Greg, my youngest, decided he wanted us to do it. He came up with the plan to raise money for Martha Trust.

“I jokingly say he dropped me in it, but I’m really pleased to be doing it.

“I have thought about doing a Tough Mudder before.

“The reality is I’m looking forward to it.”

The pair will be taking part in the event in Skipton, Yorkshire, tomorrow (Saturday, August 6), before Greg goes backpacking.

Chris and Greg are hoping to raise at least £400 for the Martha Trust, which provides lifelong care for people with profound physical and learning disabilities

Chris has been a support worker at the charity’s Mary House, on The Ridge, since December.

Chris was recently diagnosed with diabetes, prompting him to change his diet and lose weight.

He has been doing plenty of running, swimming and BodyPump classes in preparation for the Tough Mudder.

He said: “I’m probably as fit as I have ever been.

“I have probably trained harder than I have ever trained in my life.

“If I’m not fit enough now, I never will be!”

To sponsor Chris and Greg, visit: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/toughsalmons

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