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Rebecca Openshaw-Rowe, one half of the Antarctic Fire Angels, completed The Great World Race, running seven marathons in fire gear over seven continents in just one week.
The Mid and West Wales firefighter joined elite athletes to take part in the gruelling race that sees competitors start their journey in Antarctica, which is familiar territory for Bex. The other six marathons see the runners tackle Cape Town, Perth then on to two separate races in Istanbul. Flying across the Pacific Ocean to Cartegena in South America, the final race takes place in Miami, Florida.
Finishing the race on 21 November, Bex wrote on LinkedIn: “What a ride, what a week and what amazing people I shared it with.”
“I’ve never felt so tired!!!”
The motivation to take part in such a physically challenging endeavour stems from her time with Georgina Gilbert who together trekked 53 days to reach the Antarctic in January.
They shared their story with visitors to The Emergency Services Show and in this special video Emergency Services Times video interview.
They say that being visible role models has always been the key to getting their message across as they seek to change the narrative of what it means to be a girl. By doing this already difficult challenge in fire kit and a breathing apparatus set, they say, “It’s not about making it harder, its about attracting attention to get our point across.”
Bex thanked her sponsors and everyone who donated to support her incredible achievement. Her fundraising page for the King’s Trust is still open for donations.
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