Did Russ Cook Actually Make History? Who Was First to Run the Length of Africa
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- čas přidán 9. 04. 2024
- Russ Cook, a relatively unheard-of ultra-runner from Worthing, West Sussex, set out to achieve the unthinkable: running the entire length of Africa. Covering over 10,000 miles through 16 countries, and amounting to 385 marathons in 352 days, Russ's adventure has sparked a heated debate. Was he truly the first to accomplish this monumental feat, or does history tell a different tale?
In this engaging video, we delve into Russ Cook's extraordinary quest, comparing it with previous attempts by renowned adventurers like Jesper Olsen and Nicholas Bourne. Battling against sickness, dangerous encounters, and bureaucratic nightmares, Russ's story is a testament to human resilience and determination. But amidst the celebration of his achievement, questions arise about the authenticity of his claim to being the first.
We explore the complexity of defining the "entire length of Africa" and how this impacts the legitimacy of Russ's record. Beyond the controversy, this video highlights the incredible charitable contributions and the indomitable spirit of individuals who dare to push beyond the limits of human endurance.
Subscribe to our channel for a balanced exploration into Russ Cook's journey, the controversy surrounding it, and a celebration of the remarkable achievements of ultra-runners who inspire us to challenge our own boundaries. Don't miss out on this compelling blend of adventure, controversy, and the celebration of human achievement.
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Russ represents far more than only the record. He represents that some one not from a privileged background can go out and complete a great expedition that was previously the reserve for the wealthy and privileged. Whilst doing this he has raised an incredible sum of money for the running charity that helps under privileged young people turn their life’s around through the discipline and structure of running. You could not ask for a better ambassador for the running community.
Well said indeed. Totally agree
Russ is an absolute hero, if I lived in Worthing I would see if he fancies going for a run... Only 10km though
Don't let the 2004 Danny dyer accent fool you. Russ is from a somewhat privileged background.
@@NelsonVanDweller define privileged
@@syrus3kwasn't he "in part funded by a crypto millionaire" he met online? His words, idk if it was a joke
I agree with the final statement and glad you argued with all these people Russ is a legend and achieved so much he is the hardest geezer and the first to run the ENTIRE length of Africa 🎉
I just don't think you can argue that his effort is more accurately the full length of Africa
He was the first documented person to do that.
Others ran from not the most extreme points in Africa.
The WRA are in the wrong, what they claim is that others have run enough distance to reach the extremes, so one could claim that ANYONE that ran enough distance in their life has alrso completed the same challenge, even if it was in a treadmill inclined slightly downhill? Bollocks,
Russ committed to run the length, the longest direction possible in the continent. In Africa it just happens that they are both the northernmost and the southernmost points.
Yup. Agreed. Thanks for watching and for your thoughts.
Having someone actually do the full length and having more charisma that 99% of the running community put together must be quite threatening for the establishment.
The man will inspire many to get into running and should be embraced. He is much more relateable than those green runner melts.
There are certainly some great characters in the ultra running community. Russ is adding to the flavour.But in the ultra running community we generally try to be positive, supportive and encouraging to our fellow runners rather than belittling and attacking them for what they’re doing.
Another great video, Steve! A lot of people haven't mentioned his support crew either. They were putting out some fantastic content throughout the adventure, documenting the highs and the lows, and some of it was really funny! This was definitely a team effort, and Russ wouldn't have been able to do this without them. I 100% agree; we should just be celebrating this achievement along with the huge amount of money they have raised for charity.
Yes, he certainly didn't do this on his own. Massive amount of planning, huge logistical operation, incredibly expensive and involved a dedicated team.
Farthest North to South is the only way to count it. Lands End to Jon O Groats is really just a historic route. Africa doesn't have that
Why not South to North?
Having run the Brighton Marathon myself, I know how hot that can be and how sunburnt you can get so Russ Cook has balls the size of mini vans for being a redhead and completing that. The Istanbul to Worthing and Africa Run are both on another level and it doesnt matter whether he was the first or the one hundredth, he did it, raise money for charity and still remains more humble than I am and so for that . . . I doth my cap. Well done sir. Never stop!
I think that's the important thing here, raising so much money regardless of being first or whatever.
Very interesting video. As someone who watched every single video produced by Russ and his crew on this epic adventure it was amazing, and I was surprised when this all blew up the other day BUT......I think there needs to be some kind of regulation on this stuff and here's why. As a Kiwi who came to the UK last year to run from Lands End to John O Groats I was totally unaware how seriously you Brits take that run. There is SO much controversy surrounding it. There are still disputes going on years later on who holds what records. There should be a legit global running body that sanctions these types of runs, that specifies a specific route so that anyone who wants to legitimately become the first, fastest, oldest, whatever can apply accordingly. Then let everyone else who just wants to get out there and run do so at there own leisure.
The problem is these things are steeped in history and tradition. In the old days when there was no GPS, people relied on trust and point A to point B was covered as fast as possible choosing whatever route you preferred. That's also how the Rounds work. There's no official route for the Bob Graham round for example. You just go from peak to peak as quickly as possible via whatever route you think is best. And that's part of the fun and the challenge, working out the best, fastest, most efficient route. I think many would argue that's how it should stay for Lejog/Jogle.
You are doing such a great job Sarah!! When I started watching your videos, I just started running and you were doing paces that I was proud doing voor 5k's. Because all the inspiring videos I started doing a 10k, half marathon and a marathon. And during that time, that I managed to do my first marathon, you're now doing paces that are my interval-paces! And you're doing it as marathonpace!! When you succeed you will have taken ONE HOUR of your marathontime! So inspiring seeing what is possible if I keep on training. I will be really proud if I can train that much that I will be, in a year or 2, where you are now. And I'm proud of you for being there now! You're fantastic! Good luck and enjoy!🎉
Nah I ran Africa back in the day as well, the year before Strava came into existence it was trust me 💪💪💪
This is ture, I was there and saw it with my own eyes
@@jackoconnell8623 Can confirm. Jack told me the amazing story one time in an old pub
This is also true!
Well then I will write to authorities and get it verified. You, sir, are a champion.
great to hear someone pronounce controversy correctly!
😊
Haha!!
Who decides, it's the trans-Africa debate all over again 😁
Running the entire length of continent the only thing that matters is that you start at the very northern or southern end and go until you get to the other end. Russ did that. And that’s a fact. Those who claim he didn’t are just jealous because they didn’t understand the true concept of running the length of Africa. No matter how much they whine, complain, and throw fits it doesn’t change the fact that Russ is the first person to run the entire length of Africa. That fact remains the same
TLDR: Yes - he was the first person to run the ENTIRE length of Africa
Surely it's TLDW ??!! Thanks for commenting anyway. And spoiler alert, that's my basic conclusion at the end!
Russ's route is the FKT for "Entire" length of Africa. No doubt!
I think so. Thanks for commenting
only way to settle this, is for Film My Run guy to stage a Race Across Africa, with official timing (and aid stations).
I'm on it.
Very well presented Stephen. I think the issue here is media folks who are making something of nothing. Russ has done something amazing and the other 2 runners you mention also done something amazing. Live long and prosper 🤩
Thank Donato. Appreciated.
Running the entire length of Africa is hardly a pursuit that many people have tried and failed at. It’s not like there were multiple people striving for it. I don’t think anyone thought it was beyond human capability. Not like the heroic age of polar exploration . For that reason i think the ‘first’ banner is largely irrelevant. The point is the lad did something incredible. Even if he does nothing now for the next 60 years of his life he’s still had an extraordinary existence. Nobody can ever take that away from him. Being first in the pursuit seems totally irrelevant
Pretty much exactly what I said at the end of the video….
I only knew about Russ because of his appearence on Geowizards channel doing other challenges. He's clearly an amazing ultrarunner but more in the camp of David Goggins for extreme physical challenges rather than a racer
Yes I think I've seen that Geowizards thing
Which one of you is ‘more’ from Worthing, because his accent is wild, great video
Oh definitely Russ, born and bred. I just moved here 13 years ago!
Funny, I also thought about the "Nicholas Bourne" when Russ announced he was the first. Can't remember if there was a documentary, but there was def some sort of TV coverage of his run. I didn't run back then, so probably just thought he was a mad, but lets be honest, we all need a little madness in the world of ultra-running.
Just the same as Lands End is not the southernmost point, Cape Town is not the southernmost point of Africa - that is Cape Agulhas. Cape Town-to-Cairo or Cairo-to-Cape Town are the 'traditional' overland journeys to cross Africa, but that simply is not the same as the geographic length of Africa itself.
Not knocking Cape-to-Cairo, that's a huge achievement too, it's just a different achievement from Russ Cook's.
As stated in the video yes, as far as I can see Russ is the first to do Cape Agulhas to Ras Angela
great vid, well presented balanced arguments
Thank you. I appreciate that
Thank you for commenting on this! I really appreciate your commentary.
Well said Stephen. The body can do amazing things and we should embrace and celebrate the fact.
Absolutely. Thanks for watching!
Respect for all of them. Their achievements are equal. Clearly these guys can just keep running and do whatever distance they want, so it doesn't really matter 😄 Russ claims to be the first person to run the FULL length of Africa, it's crazy that people argue about that because the FULL length of Africa is not a debatable subject, it's a geographical fact.
Yes, all the guys mentioned here have done amazing things.
Southern most point, to the northern most point... that is the point
Good point
The guy is a bit of a legend and has raised alot of money for charity 🙌 would u ever run something like this ?
As I said in another comment, I am surprised he wasn't murdered. But it's people who take risks in life who change the world. I am a risk taker, but certainly wouldn't take that big of a risk. Running through Algeria or even Congo would have been too frightening for me. I'm up for a challenge, just not that extreme!
Actually if you watch the finishing clip closely the guy with the Tunisia flag breaks the tape first, so I'm afraid Russ was in fact 2nd.
He’s gonna have to start again
Guy in the yellow didn’t complete 1 marathon, so no he ain’t 😂
@@Jacob-qt1nt I'm aware of this... I was pointing out the actions of a 🔔 end
@@sharkdom we certainly agree
Extremely well covered!!! Completely agree it's very poor sportsmanship from the WRA and their half marathon comment about Russ is out of order. I also agree tio to tip is I'm my view the truest length but the others can say they've run the length and should be hugely proud as well. I also wonder how much harder it is to run through the jungle, deserts and politically challenged regions Russ went through?
Ooh I missed their half marathon comment…. What was that?
@@FilmMyRun I think it was Olsen himself who said (but definitely WRA "French runner Serge Girard in his world run crossed five continents and completed his run without one single day off during the entire run"
"To compare this with Russ Cook's run through Africa where there were several days off - I think, with all respect - is in itself a bit of a stretch, to compare a half-marathon with a full marathon." I think this is a disgusting comment and ignorant to the situations Russ went through. Medically being told to stop, robbery kidnapping, ignorant to the route etc. Olsen himself had breaks at much slower pace and Serge had breaks flying/ travelling between continent's to run mostly much shorter distances in one go. Again what incredible incredible feats for them but the comment is bitter to be protective of their own legacy. They are also the only ones comparing the runs.
Has anyone checked that there were no dogs involved with the Norwegians attempt also. They've got form
haha!
No one has done it with as much steez as Russ.
He finished on the Geezer platou next to the pyramids :))
Vox Populi, Vox Dei - the people have spoken - Russ is the top Africa dog.
And I'm the Chairman of the World Running Runners Association (and also the sole member since 1974 give or take 50 years) and I declare my organisation the official governing body of all African running, skipping, hopping and crawling events and hereby certify Russ Cooks achievement. So there.
There we have it. As official as it gets. Thank you Rob!
These people like Russ Cook do not need any recognition or Ultra communities, they would do it anyway... like me he probably finds it a turn off talking about achievements and small talk before races or after events. I ran recently with someone who had never heard of me and when they found out I was a 100 mile runner they wanted to know all the races I'd won and it was all about the Big events that I have no interest in entering. You're right it doesn't matter let's not sweat the small stuff it's all good content to bring people like you into the limelight giving you the content you need, BTW who are you? 🤣🤣🤣
I only run so I can create content 😂🤣
Stephen more importantly are you or will you be at the SDW50 this weekend? 😊
Why can't I reply to this comment?
I don't understand what is wrong with me saying 'yes I'll be there tomorrow to cheer everyone at the start line'. It keeps getting deleted by CZcams!!
@@FilmMyRun Aaah brill, hopefully try and grab a pic with you if you don't mind haha Its my first go at a 50 and the nerves are seriously starting to kick in today, any wise words of advice? 😁
@@paulmulks if you see me just come over. Don’t go out too hard and have belief that you can finish!
@@FilmMyRun OK thanks mate, be good to finally meet you in person, your videos and running achievements are inspiring and my main aim tomorrow is to just finish 🤣 If that happens then maybe next year I'll look at trying to beat a certain time ha-ha Got race registration tonight so it's really starting to feel real 😬
Yes, he did.
He did
He went form tip tip
Indeed he did
❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
Thank you for commenting!
Very nuanced, and a perfect conclusion, as far as I'm concerned.
From your video clip, he didn’t actually get his feet wet when he finished..so a fail!!!
Haha, you try telling him that!!
Dipping your toes in at Lands End is not so easy either.
What does it matter? It matters enough for you to blab on about it to get views
There’s always the option to scroll on by. It’s worth discussing I think and obviously I want views on my channel because this is my job. Was there a need to be rude to me? But thanks so much for commenting. Your support is greatly appreciated.
Russ is the Champion get out of here.
he is certainly a champion
thousands of people walk the entire length just for a better life, every year. people grip onto the bottom of lorrys and trucks and risk their lifes jsut to live in a council flat. ive walked from the southg of spain to the north of france becuase i felt like it, slept on the sidoes of the motor ways. didnt tell anyone or film it so no one gives a fuck. im just a normal person, not looking for clout i do thses things for myself only and their must be others who do too.
wowee! good work!!
That's it. We'll never actually know because there could be plenty of people who've done that trip and not told a soul.
Click bait
Why is it click bait? Is the question in the title not discussed in the video? I believe it is. There’s a difference between a thumbnail and title which intrigues you enough to click, and clickbait where the content of the video bears little resemblance to the title or thumbnail. Thanks for commenting.
Surely if you get taken hostage get would technically mean that you would of stopped. I think he put himself and crew at unnecessarily risks. He should of made sure the vehicle was good enough for the journey as well. Also he didn't look very tired at all at the end meaning he probably stopped loads on the journey. You would of thought he would be more tired at an end of a run like that. No one will probably ever go for his record as he put himself and crew at risk of being taken hostage. Thi s is why I am not surporting this.
Have you seen the amount of people who die climbing Everest and K2 every month? There are lots of people doing africa on motorbike and bicycle with no problems. The crew applied to be there and knew the risks- they’re all adults.
He didn’t say he did it non-stop. Yes, he stopped due to visa problems, sickness and waiting for his new vehicle.
Part of the reason he has captured the hearts and minds of the viewers and public is purely for this reason, he is a normal guy who has overcome adversity to pull off something huge. I bet if you had been around during the moon landing you'd have said 'well that was a waste of time, they didn't even know if they would make it there alive'.
what a goober, go watch his documented series here on youtube Hardest Geezer. Start to finish and you'll understand why he had to make stops and why he ran into issues. Just because he isn't you doesn't mean he can't do what he did. The man averaged over a marathon a day. I kept up from nearly the beginning of his journey and supported every step of the way. Just because people are willing to do things that you can't is wild. It is a lot easier to type a comment out then do something like this I guess.
@josuemendoza8222 I'm not saying he wasn't amazing. I am just saying he just put to many people at risk. I have done a few ultras, and safety is a big priority to me and the people pacing/helping. Fair enough if the crew knew the risks. But after getting taken hostage and nearly stabbed, it would have been a good time to stop. As a runner, you are ultimately responsible for the crew, and it could have been a lot worse.
@@alexdyter8237 he was very unlucky- I lived in Angola 2 years- no problems. Walk through some parts of london and you’re taking your life in your hands