In May this year, Rob Machin set out to complete the Isle of Wight Ultra Challenge—a 106km endurance walk across the island’s dramatic southern cliffs, scenic coastline, and iconic landmarks, finishing back at basecamp in Chale.
Rob took on the challenge for two key reasons:
To raise money for the British Heart Foundation, a charity close to his heart.
To push himself further than ever before—after completing 65km in last year’s attempt but falling short of the full 100km, he was determined to go the distance.
Armed with lessons from his previous challenge and the motivation to succeed, Rob achieved an incredible result:
🏅 113.19km walked
⏱️ Time: 24 hours, 51 minutes, 35 seconds
🏃♂️ Placed 294th overall
🥇 Gold Medal earned for endurance
We caught up with Rob post-race to hear how it went:
Would you do it again?
“Erm... no! I might do the Jurassic Coast again because I didn’t finish it, but this one is now well and truly done.”
Best moment?
“Honestly, seeing that finish line. I can’t quite believe it—but I actually ran the last 3km!”
Proudest moment?
“Helping my best mate—my challenge buddy—make it to the rest stop. He was really struggling, and I wasn’t prepared to leave him. It’s a team event, after all.”
Toughest moment?
“My left knee gave out around the 80km mark for a couple of kilometers and the pain was intense. I could barely put weight on it—but I powered through.”
Rob raised an amazing £765 for the British Heart Foundation, and we couldn’t be prouder of his achievement. An inspiring effort from start to finish—well done, Rob!
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Going the Distance: 106km Ultra Challenge for Paradise Team Member Rob Machin This May, the Isle of Wight’s breathtaking coastal path will set the stage for an epic endurance feat — and one of our own is stepping up to the challenge. Paradise's Sage Support Specialist, Rob Machin, is lacing up his boots for the 106km Ultra Challenge, all in support of the British Heart Foundation. With the island’s dramatic cliffs, iconic landmarks, and rugged terrain ahead of him, Rob is determined to go further than ever before — and this time, he’s ready to go the distance.
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