Running the Length of Luxembourg for a Charitable Cause

Chronicle.lu: What inspired you both to undertake this challenging run from the southern to the northernmost point of Luxembourg?

Callum Wilkinson: For both of us, we quite enjoy challenging ourselves and this seemed like an amazing way to do so. We both want to be able to tell excellent stories when we are older and this will certainly be one! We also want to do things that not many people have done and we both feel as if nobody from the Black Country has ever run the length of Luxembourg. 

Chronicle.lu: How did you decide on coming to Luxembourg? Have you visited before?

Callum Wilkinson: We wanted to run the length of a country and the Grand Duchy seemed like the perfect mix of being challenging but also realistic. We have never visited before but are both incredibly excited. 

Chronicle.lu: Please share some insights into your training regimen and preparations to tackle this 72 mile / 116 km journey in just under three days. Is this your first time undertaking such an ambitious endeavour?

Callum Wilkinson: I am currently running three times a week, gradually building up the mileage each week. Ethan is also doing much of the same, whilst training for an upcoming boxing match. 

Chronicle.lu: Do you have a particular route and/or terrain in mind (through Luxembourg's forests, for example, or mainly roads)?

Callum Wilkinson: Our starting point is just south of Rumelange and, to our knowledge, [it]  will be in a relatively forestry area. As we get further, the majority of our terrain will become a mix of roads and pavements. Our route can be broken down as follows: 

Day 1 - Our starting point, south of Rumelange to Mersch (42.1 km)
Day 2 - Mersch - Vianden (29 km)
Day 3 - Vianden - Schmett (39 km)

We are particularly looking forward to arriving in Vianden - the town looks beautiful!

Chronicle.lu: What challenges do you anticipate facing during the run, and how do you plan to overcome them?

Callum Wilkinson: On paper, a lot of things could go wrong [laughs]! Currently, I think that our biggest issue could be trying to avoid really little injuries. Being on our feet for as long as we will be each day will mean that [they] will take a lot of damage, which could make running fairly uncomfortable. As long as we eat and hydrate correctly, we should be able to prevent this as much as possible. We are also currently without accommodation in Rumelange, which could also pose an issue. We are currently planning on finding a spot in a forest and camping for the night but that could be tough if the weather is not kind to us! Regardless of the challenges that we face, as long as we are able to put one foot in front of the other, we will complete the mission. 

Chronicle.lu: Why did you choose The Kaleidoscope Plus Group as the charity to be supported by your fundraising efforts?

Callum Wilkinson: Myself and Ethan are from an area called the "Black Country" in the West Midlands and KPG is a charity that is also located in this area. We wanted to support a charity that has a positive impact on our local communities. More specifically, they support those who have troubles with mental health which is a cause that has impacted members in both of our families. 

Chronicle.lu: Approximately how much money do you hope to raise? Is there a fundraising page to which people can contribute?

Callum Wilkinson: Our initial target is £500 but we would love to surpass this, of course! The link can be found here: www.justgiving.com/page/luxembourgrun.

Chronicle.lu: How do you plan and hope to engage supporters and donors throughout the journey? Is there somewhere, e.g. social media, where people can follow your journey?

Callum Wilkinson: I will be very active on my Instagram (@cal.wlksn) posting pictures and summaries of our days as we go. KPG will also be posting updates on their Instagram (@kaleidoscope_pg) as well as on their website.