Brit ‘triple amputee’ marine part of two-month relay run across America

LONDON - A British marine, who lost both legs and an arm in a landmine explosion in Afghanistan, has set off for a new challenge to run across America.

Commando Mark Ormrod is part of a five-man team taking part in the two-month ‘Gumpathon’, which began in New York and is due to end on November 11 in California.

The charity run is inspired by Hollywood actor’s Tom Hanks’ character in Forrest Gump.

“Two years ago, I couldn’t even walk a 10-metre stretch without needing to sit down. I’m representing the Royal Marines and England so there’s no way, unless I die, that I can stop,” The Daily Express quoted Ormrod, as saying.

The team will cover up to 23 miles a day, while Ormrod has a target of a minimum of one mile on his prosthetic legs.

The runners will pass through 789 towns and cities and 16 states and cross 10 mountain ranges and three deserts. (ANI)