Brooks sponsored athlete Daryl Howe was born with C6 cerebral palsy and was told by doctors that he would never walk. Last weekend (22nd March 2008) 30 year old Daryl conquered the Two Oceans Ultra Marathon in South Africa; which is regarded as one of the toughest ultra marathons in the world.
Daz completed his 1st Marathon at Rottenest Island in his home state of Perth. Since then he has run the London Marathon followed by the New York Marathon in 2007, bringing his Marathon tally to over 8 in the past 7 years.
Daz traveled to Cape Town South Africa to fulfill his dream by running the Two Oceans Ultra Marathon and completed the epic 56 km Ultra Marathon battling through strong south easterly winds, which affected Daz’s balance; one of his greatest challenges.
Daz finished The Two Ocean Ultra Marathon in a record 10 hours, five minutes and 58 seconds. It is believed that he has run himself into the record books as the first person suffering from C6 cerebral palsy to finish an ultra marathon. Daz’s explanation for that is - "No one with my condition has ever been mad enough to attempt to run a marathon" he said.
Despite his own disability, Daz entered the race to help raise funds for the JAG Sports and Education Foundation which works to help disadvantaged primary school children in South Africa to participate in running and fitness programs.
Daz is the most inspiring person you could ever meet, touching hearts and opening people’s minds to the idea anything is possible.
Congratulations Daz on the fantastic performance; you are a true inspiration to all of us here at Brooks and we can’t wait to tackle the next marathon with you.
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