Internationally recognised fishing legends; Charles Jardine and Peter Cockwill, will, on Wednesday 21st of June be attempting to Fly Cast* the entire length of a London Marathon.
The effort will be in aid of the joint angling projects Fishing for Schools and Castaway; the challenge will see the pair undertake, in rotation, the physical effort of fly casting a variety of rods the prodigious distance of 26.2188 miles in one go.
The event will take place at Syon Park – home of the Duke of Northumberland and by permission from the Albury Estates in Surrey, who run the lakes as a prestigious fly fishery.
Fly Fishing Hall of Fame inductee and director of both Castaway and Fishing for Schools Jardine said of the fundraising effort:
“I know first-hand – well six times – how hard it is to run a marathon. Lord only knows, how tough it will be cast the similar distance. This challenge will be physically challenging on every part of both mind and body. I am thrilled to have my friend and fishing companion of over 50 years, Peter Cockwill, help me undertake this madness- but it is in aid of such an important cause.”
He added:
“We think it will take us 10 hours to compete and we will need support!”
Peter Cockwill said of the challenge: “Charles and I have shared so much, and retain such a real passion for fly fishing, that we felt it was time to join forces and create a truly memorable event. Our travels, features, books and shows have garnered a wonderful camaraderie of friends who we hope will support us throughout this event.”
Peter and Charles are thrilled and hugely grateful for the additional support coming from Industry giants Orvis – who will be providing all the equipment in the record attempt.
James Doyle, Head of Sales at Orvis UK said: “We are absolutely delighted to support this very ambitious challenge, all in aid of a great cause. We know that the ‘Cast a Marathon’ will be no match for these two world-renowned fly casters; if anyone can do it Charles and Peter can. We wish them the best of luck and are proud to have donated our best tackle to the challenge.”
Charles and Peter will be raising money for both Fishing for Schools and Castaway. Both initiatives use fishing and the countryside to benefit education, health and wellbeing.
Fishing for Schools has reached over 3,500 young people across England and Wales, supporting young people who struggle to learn in the classroom. Castaway offers a fishing programme aimed at men and women affected by all types of cancer. Castaway introduces fishing in a fun and supportive environment, helping participants connect with others, increasing confidence and self-esteem.
To donate, please visit the dedicated Just Giving page here.