Cricket sees new records almost every day, but some achievements remain special forever. One such record was recently created by a local cricketer from England.
He set a new world record for the longest run-up by running 100 kilometres before delivering a single ball.
Where did Sam Bodoano’s record-breaking run take place?
Sam Bodoano began his run from Lord’s and reached Valley End Cricket Club in Woking, Surrey where he bowled the ball. He has also applied to have his achievement recognised by Guinness World Records. The entire run took 14 hours and Bodoano did it to raise money for charity.
When did the 100-kilometre run-up take place?
Sam Bodoano began his bowling run at midnight on Saturday, 29th August. After covering 100 kilometres in 14 hours, he reached the venue at 2 PM local time on Sunday where he finally delivered the ball. Sam Bodoano raised 6,000 pounds (around Rs 8 lakh) for the cancer charity The Ruth Strauss Foundation. The organisation was set up by former England captain Andrew Strauss in memory of his late wife, Ruth.
What specific rules did Bodoano have to follow during the challenge?
To make the record official, Sam Bodoano had to run while carrying the ball and wearing a white cricket kit. After completing the run-up and delivering the record setting ball, he also had to play a cricket match. Sam Bodoano’s effort broke Tom Dunn’s record of a 24-kilometre run-up, which had stood since 2024. After completing the challenge, Bodoano said, ‘Holding the ball throughout the run was quite difficult. Surprisingly, wearing the white cricket kit was not as uncomfortable as I expected. The challenge was very tough and left my legs completely exhausted, but I managed to finish it. I also received great support along the way.’
Where is the video?
What inspired Sam Bodoano to combine ultra-marathon running with cricket?
He said, ‘I am very tired and did not get enough sleep, but it was all for a great cause. I often take part in different challenges on social media that allow me to combine them with my interests. I have spent most of my life playing cricket, so I was really excited to bring ultra-marathon running and cricket together for this challenge.’
What are the next steps for official record confirmation?
According to Guinness World Records rules, Sam Bodoano’s attempt will now go through an official review. The record will be confirmed once the verification process is complete.