London, Oct. 29 (SANA) British runner Esmee Gummer has set a Guinness World Record after completing a 5,000-kilometer journey across the United Kingdom and Ireland in 99 days, organizing 76 running clubs along the way to promote inclusive physical activity.
The 35-year-old achieved the record through her “The Nations 5K” initiative, which began on June 27 and ended in London on October 3, Guinness World Records said in a report published Wednesday.
Gummer organized free five-kilometer runs in cities across the two countries, welcoming experienced runners, beginners and wheelchair users.
She deliberately finished last at each event to encourage participants to focus on completing the distance rather than their speed or finishing position.
The initiative also raised funds for spinal cord injury research and mental health causes.
Gummer’s achievement follows a remarkable recovery from paralysis at the age of 18, when complications from surgery left her unable to move her legs.
Doctors initially warned that she might never walk again, but she eventually regained her ability to walk, dance and run.
She went on to take part in long-distance endurance challenges before completing her latest journey, which brought together thousands of participants in support of accessible exercise.
R.D/ABD