On 2nd August, Oliver Millard (5.14–19) will be tackling one of the Channel Islands’ most gruelling endurance events: the ‘Round the Rock’ ultramarathon in Jersey. The race spans 48 miles of rugged coastal trails and includes 4,500 feet of elevation, all of which Ollie aims to complete in under 12 hours.
But this isn’t just a personal challenge – it’s a mission with a message. Ollie is running to raise funds and awareness for ANDYSMANCLUB – It’s Okay To Talk, a charity dedicated to improving men’s mental health through peer-to-peer support groups.
“The whole life thing can get a bit much sometimes,” Ollie says. “I’m very fortunate to have an amazing support network of friends around me. A problem shared is a problem halved. So, I’d like to raise money for those who may not have that support network to rely on.”
Ollie’s journey to the start line hasn’t been without its hurdles. He originally signed up for the race last year but withdrew just weeks before, not due to a lack of motivation, but out of fear of failure.
“Avoiding the risk just felt easier,” he admits. “In the end, I deferred my entry. Now I’m keen to get the monkey off my back!”
Joining him on the course will be fellow Old Malvernian Jock Catto (5.15–20), who has already made headlines this year by running a marathon distance every day for 20 consecutive days as part of Ned Brockman’s Uncomfortable Challenge. Ollie jokes, “No doubt he’ll finish a few hours ahead of me!”
If you’d like to support Ollie’s cause, you can donate via his JustGiving page here. Even the cost of a single pint will make a difference!