RAF Honington serviceman takes on three epic challenges for the Fund

RAF Honington serviceman Doug McCorkindale has completed three physical challenges to raise money for the RAF Benevolent Fund, finishing with the Welsh 3000s this June.

Doug has taken on three months of physical challenges including the London Marathon, Edinburgh Marathon and the Welsh 3000s, which involves climbing 15 mountains in Wales over 3000 feet.

Currently in his 10th year in the Air Force, Doug is serving as the Officer Commanding of RAF Regiment Gunner Phase 2 Training at RAF Honington.

Doug said: “I like to have physical goals to work towards to help keep me focused – and what better motivation than raising some charity money in the process.”

He continued: “Anyone who knows London will know how perilous it is trying to go for a run through the street on a normal day. The opportunity to run through such iconic streets and past famous monuments with the roads closed off was a fantastic experience! There was no shortage of crowds of random strangers shouting out words of encouragement. It was such a morale boost!

“For the Edinburgh Marathon I set off in torrential rain, I was soaked before I started! I didn't expect to get wet feet and pink shoulders in the same race. I was a little disappointed in my time, but 3hrs 47 is still respectable.”

Doug set off on the Welsh 3000s challenge on 26 June with his colleague Campbell Steel. The team started their trek at 2am on Yr Wyddfa, in Snowdon, climbing 3560ft. They completed their climb of 15 peaks in 22.5 hours.

The challenge requires you to have been at the top of all 15 of mountains over 3,000 ft in Wales within the space of 24 hours, without using any form of transport.

Doug said of his motivation to challenge himself: “Being in the RAF, I've seen firsthand the amazing work the RAF Benevolent Fund does and the support on offer. I have also signposted several people to the Fund myself. Ensuring the charity remains funded and can continue its work for those currently serving, their families, and veterans is vitally important.”

He continued: “I’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone who has supported and sponsored my adventures. Everything from bringing snacks to the finish line, to the incredibly generous donations. Having initially set out to raise £500, we are pleased to say we raised a total of £865!”

You can donate to Doug’s fundraiser on JustGiving.