RM Speed March for charity in London puts spotlight on mental health
In a gruelling world-record attempt, legendary polar explorer and retired Royal Marines Commando RSM, Barry ‘Baz’ Gray from Yelverton in Devon, is to lead a group of 12 retired Royal Marines, all over the age of 45, on a 26-mile (42km) marathon speed march around London, in full military kit and carrying 40lb (18kg) back-packs.
Having already completed three training sessions with the group, Baz used the prestigious launch of the Royal Marines 360th Anniversary year at The Tower of London to announce details of the Royal Marines Veterans Speed March that aims to raise awareness and increase the understanding of the mental health challenges facing many of those within the veteran community, and the resultant impact on their families.
In explaining the reasoning behind the ambitious initiative, Baz says: “ Put quite simply, physical and mental health issues within the entire Veteran community is as bad today as it has ever been. This is a result of many years in conflict zones on a global scale, most notably in Afghanistan and Iraq.
The knock-on effect of this goes far beyond the individual. It has huge impact on friends and family, especially children.
It is particularly tough in these modern times where the NHS is hugely overburdened, waiting lists are high and funding is at a premium. Many veterans are slipping through the net and, more often than not, this results in suicide.
Having a project to focus on and a purpose in life can transform it from one of utter boredom and depression to one of excitement and fulfilment.
This initiative is already changing lives and inspiring many veterans to get up, get active and find a bit of their old selves. We want to grow it, share it and transform as many more lives as we can.”
Joined by those who are supporting the cause but will be running without the added weight, the RM Veterans Speed March is more than just about speed-marching around the streets of London on one single day in July.
It is also about what the group will be doing between now and then to promote, share, and raise awareness of Veterans Mental Health Issues throughout the year.
This will include organising a series of smaller challenges all over the country, open to anybody of any age who wants to take part and have a go at running a shorter, 400-metre course with a 40lb pack as quickly as possible.
The RM Veterans Speed March has to date already raised close to £50,000 for RMA – The Royal Marines Charity, contributing much-needed funds so the Corps’ own Charity can continue to push forward the powerful work that it does in this vitally important area, including its Lifting the Lid campaign.
