Spring has truly sprung! There’s a real sense of excitement in the office as we enter marathon season, kicking off the year with the first ever SportPursuit Conwy Marathon by Always Aim High Events, and for non-runners there is plenty to look forward to as well. A few more weeks of spring skiing in the mountains, longer hours of daylight to get out and active after work, and a bit of sunshine for those weekend ride cake stops! Here’s the latest from SportPursuit HQ and the gear we’re excited about:
The Marathon Man – Ben Smith and the 401 Foundation
Many of us might choose a marathon as a personal challenge, a few even get the bug and start to push for faster times and exotic locations to run 26.2 miles. No-one has matched the achievement of Ben Smith, who ran 401 marathons in as many days to raise money and awareness about mental health and anti-bullying charities and has now founded the 401 Foundation to carry on this advocacy.
As active people we can all appreciate the balance and benefits that our sporting pursuits bring to everyday life. Hearing Ben’s story brought into clearer focus how important sport is for personal mental health, but also how sport can be used for a wider mission – to raise awareness and highlight the benefits of sport for your mind and body.
We are proud to be supporting Ben as he trains for an amazing new challenge – USA 2020 – running a marathon in every US State Capital and cycling between each run… in just 104 days! By sharing Ben’s story to the SportPursuit community and beyond we hope we can help more people of all ages find confidence and happiness in active and healthy lives, overcome challenges they never would have imagined possible, and discover pursuits that they love.
Ice & Palms – a Human-Powered Ski Mission
Speaking of impressive feats of endurance, this new film shows two skiers who decided to make their latest ski tour a completely human-powered mission. Jochen Mesle and Max Kroneck cycled across the alps carrying all of their equipment and skiing some iconic mountains along the way – no motors allowed! In a area of snowsports where real satisfaction comes when you “earn your turns”, this ski expedition takes the idea to an extreme.
Six weeks, 1.800 km, 35.000 vertical meters and a dream come true.
The amazing undertaking also highlighted how every choice can have an impact on the natural world – our home and playground. Jochen and Max were supported by Vaude, one brand making big steps in sustainability, including creating their own production base powered by 100% renewable sources. Discover the Vaude luggage that could take you on your next bikepacking adventure or daily commute!
Totally Active: Spring Issue now live
Totally Active Magazine brings you another round of inspirational stories, insightful kit reviews, and athlete interviews in the Spring issue, available to read for free online. Highlights in the latest issue include an epic ride from sea to summit in Tenerife, an interview with British Olympic triathlete Tim Don, and gear reviews of the latest kit for this season.
Saxx Underwear – in the Right Ballpark
When you think of kit that makes you perform well and feel great, it makes sense to start with the very first layer you put on – your underwear! With high-tech design features like Flat Out Seams™, mesh panels and the patented BallPark Pouch™, it’s no surprise that the latest collection of Saxx underwear is a new level of comfort for an active lifestyle.
That’s it for this month’s Kit List – good luck to everyone taking on a marathon over the next few weeks and enjoy some Easter training treats for your hard work!