One of the most inspiring sporting events this coming weekend will take place away from the TV cameras and the spotlight of the greatest attention, but it is worth taking two minutes to learn a little more.
Mark O’Brien, a 55-year-old dual citizen of Ireland and the UK, will embark on the challenge of setting two Guinness World Records in a single day, one made extraordinary because he has Motor Neurone Disease (ALS).
Diagnosed with MND in March 2022, Mark’s mission is to raise awareness and funds for MND charities.
“With the help of my family, friends, and support from the MND associations in the UK and Ireland, I’ve emerged from the darkest time of my life,” he said.
“Beyond fundraising, I want to highlight the mental health impacts of terminal illness and the positive effects of challenging oneself.’
His day will begin in Luton, UK, with a 50m Freestyle attempt at 08:50 AM, where he aims to beat a time of 38.92 seconds.
He will then travel to Dublin for his second attempt — a 100m Freestyle at the National Aquatic Centre at 4:30 PM, aiming to surpass a time of one minute 39.88 seconds.
This latest endeavour follows his previous achievement of setting the Guinness world record for the longest nonstop, unaided open-water swim by a person with MND, covering 6.8 miles (11 km) in 2023.
O’Brien’s efforts have drawn strong support from both Irish and UK communities.
“Mark’s courage and determination are truly remarkable,” said Kevin Burn, CEO of the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association (IMNDA).
“Taking on two Guinness World Record attempts in one day is incredible, but doing so in two different countries is beyond inspiring. We are deeply grateful for his efforts to raise awareness and funds for MND, and we wish him every success.”
The attempts are being backed by Sport for Business members Campion Insurance and PIB Insurance Brokers.
“Mark’s resolve, fortitude, and drive are inspiring,” said Jim Campion, CEO of Campion Insurance.
“The team at Campion Insurance is proud to support his fundraising for the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association, the UK Motor Neurone Disease Association, and Challenging MND. I’d encourage everyone to come out to the National Aquatic Centre on September 1st to support Mark on the day.”
“We are delighted to support Mark in his world record attempt,” added Zach Grey, CEO Retail Specialty at PIB Insurance Brokers.
“MND is a cause close to our hearts, and when Mark approached us, we jumped at the chance to get involved. Setting two world records in one day across two countries would be an incredible achievement and a testament to what can be accomplished when we come together.”
All funds raised will be equally distributed among the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association (IMNDA), the UK Motor Neurone Disease Association (MNDA), and Challenging MND. Donations can be made through his GiveWheel fundraising page.
Mark hopes his journey will leave a lasting legacy for his children, showing them that even when life seems impossible, perseverance can turn the impossible into reality.
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