Crewe businessman to run Antarctica 'Ice Marathon' for autism charity supporting his son
By Jan Roberts
24th Nov 2023 | Local News
A Crewe businessman is hard in training for an epic Antarctica marathon, to raise money for a Cheshire charity helping his son to live with autism.
Chris Woolnough, 40, is taking part in the 'Ice Marathon' in December running a full 26.2 miles in the coldest place on earth to boost funds for Cheshire Autism Practical Support (CHAPS), Northwich, which supports seven year-old son Thomas.
The father-of-three, who heads up the UK division of insurance company Assurant which has headquarters in Crewe, wants to show appreciation to the charity by raising £5,000.
Chris, from Sandbach, is no stranger to marathons, competing in the Chester and Manchester events this year. Running across snow and ice in temperatures of minus 35 will be a true test of endurance.
He told Nub News "Every bit of skin has to be covered to avoid frost bite and it's so cold, sweat turns to ice on the body.
"You have to wear multiple layers and ski goggles and mask to help protect against the wind chill and even carrying water isn't possible as it turns to ice.
"It will be the toughest thing I have ever done but CHAPS has been a tower of support to my son Thomas and family.
"It runs training courses for parents and the dedicated swimming and trampolining it offers children really helps Thomas cope with anxiety.
"One of the biggest issues we deal with as parents is known as 'demand avoidance' when a child flatly refuses to do something such as go to school or on a family outing.
"The training has helped my wife and I handle these situations and give us all quality time together."
The couple, whose children are 11, seven and two, can look forward to attending events together.
Chris said: "As Thomas grows older there are clubs and activities he can enjoy with youngsters his own age.
"It really is a wonderful charity and I hope I can meet this challenge."
Chris travels the world in his role as UK managing director and European commercial director for Assurant, which insures millions of mobile phones, cars and household valuables and employs more than 400 people on Crewe Business Park.
To prepare him for Antarctica he went running in Finland but was hampered not by the cold but charging reindeer.
Chris had planned to run a North Pole marathon but issues over Russian flight paths due to the Ukraine war meant runners couldn't get clearance.
He added: "There are 50 people from around the world taking part in the Ice Marathon and I'm one of five Brits so we can support each other.
"There's been a great response to my fundraising so far, from work colleagues and friends and family.
"I hope to do the charity proud and plan other marathons for the cause next year."
Chris will travel to Antarctica, via Chile and Brazil, and will have a few days of preparation before the marathon begins.
There's been support from the South Cheshire business community for his effort via LinkedIn.
He also has a fundraising page for anyone who can support the charity. View it HERE.
READ MORE: Multi-channel UK retailer targets site to launch in Crewe.
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