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Blackpool soldier in Basra marathon
LONDON, New York, Chicago – all renowned for hosting world famous marathons.
But one Blackpool soldier has put a new city on the map – the Iraqi provincial capital Basra.
Warrant officer Allan Mossman, "Mossy" to his colleagues, braved the dangers of the Arabian desert to complete what may well be the first ever Basra Marathon, raising cash for injured comrades in the process.
There was no New Year's Day lie-in for WO Mossman, a soldier with the first battalion the Duke of Lancaster's regiment (1 Lancs).
He was up in the small hours to begin the gruelling 26-mile challenge.
Achievement
But while runners in London and New York have the advantage of breathtaking scenery while they run, the soldier had to be content with the containers and temporary buildings of the Basra army camp.
He said "It has been a terrifically supported event and I must say a big thank you to the commanding officer for his support.
"We have raised over 1,500 so far for Help for Heroes, supporting injured soldiers back at home.
"It's just a fantastic achievement."
WO Mossman, 40, admitted hitting the dreaded wall where many marathon runners feel their energy drained.
He said: "The 21-mile point was emotional. I was drained at that point, but the support from the lads who ran in pairs throughout the entire event kept me going."
WO Mossman, whose family live in South Shore, completed his seven laps of the army base in a respectable four hours and 16 minutes.
Despite this he said he would be taking a rest from running,
He said: "I'm now 40 so I think I'm going to take it easier for a while – perhaps now work on my upper body!"
Officials at Help for Heroes described WO Mossman's run as a "brilliant effort" and praised his fundraising.
He was not the only soldier from 1 Lancs involved in sporting action over the New Year.
Keen to avenge a 22-3 defeat on their last outing against their Iraqi comrades, soldiers from 1 Lancs arranged an international soccer rematch – desert-style.
Unfortunately, in keeping with the longest tradition of British teams on foreign soil they lost on penalties!
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Weather for Blackpool
Friday 25 May 2012
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Temperature: 13 C to 24 C
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