A man attempting to run an incredible 401 marathons in as many days set off around Levenmouth.
Ben Smith, 33, is travelling around the UK in his quest to complete the gruelling challenge with the aim of raising £250,000 for equality charity Stonewall and anti-bullying organisation Kidscape.
His 275th marathon started from The Lemon Tree coffee shop in Leven.
Mr Smith, who lives near Bristol, suffered bullying at boarding school and it had a profound impact on his life.
He said coming out as gay was a turning point for him and taking up running has boosted his confidence further.
“The turning point for me came when I was 31, after years of doing what others wanted me to do, acting in a way others told me to act, I took charge of my life and finally came out as gay,” he said.
“The bullying I had faced at school had stripped me of my ability to accept who I was but this was no more.”
Having watched the London Marathon on television, he decided to take up running three years ago.
He said: “The feeling I got from running was a sense of accomplishment I had never felt before, I was hooked. Having never been very good at sport at school you could say I had started from nothing which made the achievement even sweeter.
“Around two years ago I decided to plan a challenge that at the time I honestly didn’t feel like I would be able to do. This is where the 401 Challenge was born.
“Having a close network of friends, family and sponsors on board has been integral to the success of the 401 Challenge so far.
“The strength they have given me to accept who I am has led me to be able to use my own experiences from my past and present to stand up and be counted when it comes to stamping out bullying.”
The Levenmouth route was planned by local marathon and ultra-marathon runner Victoria Hunter, who found out about his campaign online.
It consisted of two 13 mile loops of Levenmouth, around the local paths network and beach.
Mrs Hunter said “When I saw Ben’s 401 Challenge online I knew I had to help.
“Raising awareness and funds to speak out against bullying is vital and I’m delighted to do my little bit to support Ben’s epic challenge.”
Lemon Tree proprietor Karen Donaldson added: “As a local business I’m delighted to be supporting Ben and Victoria. It is an inspiring challenge and worthwhile cause.”
More can be found at www.the401challenge.co.uk.
