Sharon sets sights on two new world records in 48 hours

Ultra distance runner Sharon Gayter is looking to set a double world record when she steps onto the treadmill for 48 hours.

Sharon will spend two days and two nights on the treadmill at Teesside University and is hoping to cover a distance in excess of 200 miles.

The current world record for distance covered on a treadmill in 48 hours is 322.93km – just over 200 miles. On route to the 48 hour record, Sharon is also hoping to break the 12 hour record, which stands at 96.80km – just over 60 miles.

The world record attempts get underway at midday on Tuesday 31 March and Sharon will be supported by staff from the University’s School of Social Sciences, Business & Law.

Sharon, who is a part-time lecturer at Teesside University, made headlines in 2011 when she spent seven days on a treadmill, smashing both the men’s and women’s world records and covering a total distance of 833.05km or 517.63 miles. The record is yet to be beaten.

During her career Sharon has run over 300 marathons and 100 ultra-distance races, including the Badwater Ultramarathon of 135 miles across Death Valley – billed as the hottest race on earth. In 2009 she won a gold medal at the Commonwealth Championships 24 hour event.

Speaking about her latest challenge, she said: 'The 48 hour world record is one that I have been eager to do for a long-time and I am very much looking forward to it. But it will be the hardest one as I’ll have to set a good pace for the first 12 hours and then just keep on going as best I can.

'I’m grateful to Teesside University for once again showing me incredible support and I’m both mentally and physically prepared for the challenge ahead.'

Keith Haley, from the School of Social Sciences, Business & Law, said: 'We have supported Sharon in the past and are looking forward to being involved in what I’m sure will be another incredible achievement.'

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