Bristol men’s 45-mile challenge in memory of Orbis fundraiser Simon Speirs

Ian Wilkinson and Greg Hingley, from Bristol, took on a 45-mile multi-terrain ultramarathon in memory of the fellow lawyer and avid yachtsman, who was described by the people who knew him as an ‘inspirational guy’, ‘a true gentleman’, ‘determined’ and ‘generous.’

Following a memorial service for Simon - a devoted father of-four and former solicitor at city firm Osborne Clarke - Ian was inspired to do something to add to Simon’s Orbis fundraising total of nearly £15,000 and enlisted the help of his friend Greg to run the Green Man Ultra.

The race takes place in March and loops around Bristol. Being in spring, the race is often muddy, providing challenging conditions, but the stunning backdrop of the city and countryside surrounding it more than makes up for it.

The pair felt that as Simon sailed single-handedly around the Isle of Man in a dinghy and had been sailing round the world, the tough feat was in line with his spirit.

Speaking about running in Simon’s memory, Ian said: “We were all in awe of Simon because he had achieved great things, all the while being a thoroughly decent chap and an excellent lawyer to his clients.”

“One of Simon’s clients wrote to me after his death to say that the world was a poorer place for his passing. That is certainly true."

“Simon, we will miss you.”

Well done Ian and Greg! What a fantastic achievement.