Ben Hodgart/Big Energy ProductionsAn AC/DC fan has run an ultramarathon dressed as the band’s Angus Young, running between the first and last concerts on their Australian tour to raise money for charity.
Rob Pope, from Liverpool, met the band before he started the challenge last month, and they pledged to donate money raised from sales of inflatable guitars at their shows to his fundraiser.
The vet ran a total of 1,200 miles (1,930km) from Melbourne to Brisbane while pushing a three-wheeled stroller – which he called Rosie after the band’s song “Whole Lotta Rosie”.
“It’s been such an incredible journey across Australia, and meeting AC/DC was a brilliant way to begin my run,” Mr Pope said.
He ran 45 miles (72km) a day to raise money to be split between three charities. the NSPCC, WWF and Australian children’s charity The Smith Family.
He said: “It’s been so tough at times, sweating through 90 degree heat, getting lost in a forest, bush fires, running on long stretches of roads.
Ben Hodgart/Big Energy Productions“But I’ve made incredible memories, sunrises over the ocean, being attacked by a deadly brown snake, and hanging out with bikers.
“I got to run across Sydney Harbour Bridge with the Opera House in view and I even saved a goat from being stuck in a fence.”
Mr Pope added: “I’d like to thank every person who has supported me and allowed this to be possible.
“If what I’ve done can help others in even a small way, it will have been worth it.”
The NSPCC said the charity was “so proud” of Mr Pope for taking on such an “incredible challenge”.
Ben Hodgart/Big Energy Productions“Rob is not only a local hero in Liverpool, but right across the NSPCC,” said Janette Drew, the charity’s fundraising manager in the North West.
“It was a serious undertaking any athlete would struggle with and he smashed it. We were with Rob for every step and can’t thank him enough.”
The WWF said the accomplishment showed Mr Pope’s “remarkable dedication and resilience”.
“Rob continues to find innovative ways to rally support for the causes he cares about.
“We’re honoured to be one of the beneficiaries of this extraordinary feat and grateful to every single person supporting his campaign for helping us to protect our planet’s precious wildlife and habitats.”
