Student takes on gruelling challenge in memory of nan.

Zack Killoran took on a gruelling mental and physical challenge to raise £3,397 in memory of his Nan. 

While intensive training is recommended before taking on the 4x4x48 Challenge – which consists of running an incredible 4 miles, every 4 hours, giving a grand total of 48 miles across 48 hours – the sports enthusiast signed up last minute after spotting it while scrolling through Twitter. 

“I have a great group of family and friends surrounding me, who are always supportive of everything I do – even in these strange times!” Zack said, who is originally from Upminster but currently studying Sports Science at the University of Bath.

“For me, the toughest part came at around half 7 on a Saturday morning, as my alarm went off, and I had to prepare for my 6th run. With less than two hours sleep, I thought the challenge had got the better of me. However, getting out of bed and completing that run gave me the motivation to finish it!”

The event also coincided with the second anniversary of Zack’s Nan, Sally Smith, so the timing was perfect to put his endurance levels to the test while raising money for Saint Francis Hospice. 

“After being diagnosed with terminal cancer, the Saint Francis Hospice at Home Team enabled our family to care for Nan at home and ensured that her last few weeks were comfortable and they were a great support to our family,” said Zack.   

“She was a brilliant Nan and filled my childhood with happy memories. Putting myself through a bit of pain for a brilliant cause and a fantastic person was an excellent opportunity, and one that I’m very proud of.”

Zack was incredibly grateful to have a support system around him whilst doing the challenge, with his housemates and university friends accompanying him on runs, so he wouldn’t be doing it on his own!

“I’m beyond proud of myself for completing the challenge, but more so for the amount raised. I couldn’t be more thankful for the support from everyone. I hope it made my nan very proud and that it will do great things for the hospice” he said.

You can watch the video of him completing the challenge here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g4rjy0czmDQ&t=18s&ab_channel=ZackKilloran

Thank you so much to Zack and all the supporters who donated and cheered him on whilst he undertook this difficult challenge!