Salisbury-based woman to take on incredible challenge

Wednesday, 18 January 2023 00:00

Sally Orange is taking on one of her biggest-ever challenges later this month as she takes on seven marathons on seven continents in seven days.

The endurance runner, adventurer and mental health campaigner is the first-ever female veteran to take on the challenge. Sally served for 22 years in the British Army as a physiotherapist.

The World Marathon Challenge sees competitors starting in Antarctica. Sally and the other competitors will run in Cape Town, Perth, Dubai, Madrid and Fortaleza before completing their final marathon in Miami.

In doing so, she will continue to help break the stigma associated with mental ill health and raise funds for seven incredible charities close to her heart through public donations.

Sally told Salisbury Radio and Love Salisbury why she was taking part, "I am going to be attempting to run seven marathons on seven continents in seven days, raising money for seven different charities that are all close to my heart.

"That involves mental health and getting the message out there that it's okay to talk about your own mental health or somebody else's mental health.

"I really want to help break down the stigma associated with talking about your mental health."

Taking part in the event is aimed at raising money and awareness for several charities.

- The Duke of Edinburgh's Award (DofE) - The Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association (SSAFA) - Marathon Kids UK - Armed Forces Para-Snowsport Team (AFPST) - Ripple Suicide Prevention - Walking with the Wounded - Scotty's Little Soldier

More people have stood on top of Everest than have completed the World Marathon Challenge. Sally will become just the fifth British woman and 1st female military veteran to have undertaken this incredible achievement.

Sally is being supported by several businesses, some of which are local, as she takes on the mammoth challenge.

All the Sevens Taxis, Stars Appeal - Wessex Rehab Fund, Chemring, Sports Direct Fitness, and Altus are supporting her.

You can donate to her fundraising here - https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/sally-orange-wmc