By his own admission David Elliott is far from a natural marathon runner.
Weighing in at a hefty 18 stones 4lbs last month and of a naturally squat frame he does not fit the typical angular figure of the long distance athlete.
But what he lacks in natural talent he more than makes up for in indefatigable determination.
Now he is preparing for his latest challenge – the Pedal for Pounds 5, Chapman Trail, named after legendary former Huddersfield Town and Arsenal manager Herbert Chapman.
And while Town fans will be ‘taking it easy’ on their bikes, 43-year-old David will be running from Leeds Road to Arsenal’s stadium, the Emirates, a distance of 190 miles, before biking it back – an additional 250 miles.
Astonishingly, since 2007 the company director has chalked up a stunning 50 marathons raising thousands of pounds for charity.
David, of Millhouse Green, said: “As part of the challenge my new wife, Sarah, who says I should not be running because I am not tall enough, insists I have to be no heavier than 15st 8lb or I can’t start it.
“I was 18st 4lb on Jan 1 and I’m now down to 17st 6lb and training every day.
“On the run I am being joined by legendary marathon runner Alan ‘Booby’ Boothroyd on the last three days who has kindly said he will help me down to London.
“This means he will make me have ice baths and keep me out of ‘truck stop greasy spoons’.
“I am really looking forward to doing the bike ride for the first time and experiencing the great camaraderie they have on the rides.
“It will be great running down to London with my team, Neil Worthington, my bank manager, Graham Hallam, and Jason Taylor, of Kirklees College, who will help with the driving.
“And it will be fantastic on the way back home to ride along with nearly 300 cyclists.”
The annual charity cycle ride in aid of the Keep it Up campaign raises money for the Yorkshire Air Ambulance and the club’s Academy. David is due to start his latest trek on April 17. He is hoping to raise between £4,000 and £5,000.
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