A Nissan network development manager has completed a gruelling 100+ mile running challenge, raising more than £2,000 for charity in the process.
Atul Shahane, Regional Network Development Manager for Nissan in the UK, completed the ‘Ultra Scotland 100’ endurance race earlier this month with the aim of raising £800 for the Richard Whitehead Foundation.
In fact, that target was exceeded well in advance of the event and Atul had raised £2,000 on the day of the challenge, with donations continuing to arrive thick and fast!
Keen runner Atul has taken part in a number of marathons and endurance races over the years. He explained: ‘‘Having most recently completed the Glasgow to Edinburgh Ultra in October 2023 – a distance of 57 miles – I wanted to challenge myself again.
‘‘The Ultra Scotland 100-mile event seemed perfect – quite a target given the unpredictable Scottish weather! My main aim was to raise money for the Richard Whitehead Foundation and I am super-thrilled that I managed to complete the course – actually a distance of 111 miles, according to Strava.’’
As part of its Possibilities project, Nissan has been working with the Richard Whitehead Foundation for a number of years to help people with disabilities participate in sporting activities.
Atul has provided sterling support since the start of the project in 2021. As well as completing his recent Scottish run, he has raised funds by tackling three London Marathons and a Great North Run, collecting more than £5,000.
Resources and expertise
Nissan believes in making excitement possible for all and making a positive impact to enrich people’s lives. Using technologies, resources and expertise, the company helps to deliver sustainable events – and the ‘Possibilities’ are endless!
Also involved is a company called Össur, which provides the running prosthetics for beneficiaries of the project with leg limb loss, amputation or limb difference.
Atul has taken part in a number of events alongside Richard, who himself races with the aid of prosthetic running legs.
Richard, Nissan’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Ambassador, is a four-time 200m World Champion and a Gold and Silver medal-winning Paralympian. Also a marathon and half-marathon world record holder, he was made an MBE in 2013 for his services to athletics.
The Ultra Scotland 100 race follows one of Scotland’s great trails, the breathtaking Southern Upland Way. Taking in spectacular forests, valleys and mountains, the route encompasses varying terrain and shows southern Scotland’s scenery in all its glory.
Atul said: ‘‘I would like to thank everyone who has supported my cause. Special thanks go to Nissan GB, Richard Whitehead, my friends, colleagues, family and co-runners for being with me on this incredible journey.’’
Atul’s online fund-raising page was in the top 10 per cent of JustGiving appeals in May. And it’s not too late to sponsor him! Click here to do so.