'I'm running the length of South America for MND'

Mike Humphreys celebrates at Hull City's MKM Stadium after running 30 marathons in 30 days

A man who rode a Raleigh Chopper bike from Hull to the highest ski resort in Europe is to embark on a new epic challenge by running the length of South America.

Mike Humphreys, from Hedon, will head to the southernmost tip of Chile in October before setting out for the northernmost point of Colombia, a distance of about 4,700 miles (7,600km).

The adventure, to raise awareness of motor neurone disease (MND), will include crossing the Andes mountains.

"It's one of the most diverse terrains on the planet – deserts, mountain ranges, tropical beaches, rainforests," Mr Humphreys said. "It's going to be a challenge of a lifetime, but I'm hoping it will bring so much more awareness to MND."

Mr Humphreys made headlines earlier this year when he rode 1,000 miles (1,609km) across Europe on a classic Chopper bike, ending at Val Thorens in the French Alps, which sits at an altitude of 7,546ft (2,300m).

The final stretch included a 22-mile (35km) uphill ride in sub-zero temperatures to the French town.

Mike Humphreys rode across Europe on his Raleigh Chopper bike

Mr Humphreys said he wanted to raise money to help find a cure for MND after losing friend Carl Giblin to the condition in 2013. Another friend, Craig Eskrett, was diagnosed in 2023.

"It's such a devastating disease. It currently has no cure," he said.

"I've tried to do some challenges and raise awareness, alongside trying to bring Craig some hope. He's one of the most inspiring, positive people you'll meet."

Last year, Mr Humphreys, a personal trainer, ran 30 marathons across Europe in 30 days.

His other challenges, which followers on Instagram help him to choose, have included running a marathon in ski boots and climbing a mountain wearing only flip-flops and swimming trunks.

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