DailySun
Antarctic – On December 13, 2024, Iain Buchan (75), the founder of The Unlimited, alongside his daughter Wallis Watt, chairwoman of The Unlimited, and son-in-law Ken Watt, embraced one of the most demanding sporting challenges in the world, all under ideal Antarctic conditions.
This trio successfully finished the Antarctic Ice Marathon, challenging their limits to raise awareness for Early Childhood Development (ECD).
Confronted with chill temperatures of -10°C and tough terrain, Wallis remarked that the snow made running “incredibly energy-draining due to the softness of the snow.”
Despite the taxing conditions, they demonstrated remarkable perseverance, completing four laps on a 10.5km circuit alongside 62 marathon runners from around the world.
“The weather was perfect – there was a gentle breeze and bright sunny skies,” Wallis reflects, having secured a commendable fourth place in the women’s category.
“The sun is extremely intense there, so we had to be mindful of both sunburn and frostbite, carefully covering all exposed skin, including our faces.”
The marathon featured aid stations located at the start and halfway points, providing essential rest spots where runners could momentarily remove their face coverings and gloves to refuel and hydrate with warm water before continuing.
Amidst the breathtaking Antarctic scenery, the runners found motivation in the stunning surroundings.
“With so few distractions, we could focus on the little things, like the glimmering snow and the countless shades of blue in the sky,” Wallis reminisces.
The family’s finish was particularly unforgettable as they fortuitously crossed the finish line together.
“My dad was completing his third lap while Ken and I were crossing the finish line,” Wallis recounts.
“Ken grabbed the South African flag, and we ran across the finish together.”
“Because of the small scale of the event, they set up a finishing banner for everyone to run through at the end. It was genuinely special.”
This outstanding achievement is part of the family’s tradition of embracing extreme challenges, from climbing mountains to trekking across the South Pole, all in support of The Unlimited Child’s mission.
To date, this non-profit organization has positively impacted over 2 million children in Southern Africa and Yemen, trained more than 12,000 practitioners, and supported nearly 6,000 Early Childhood Development centers.
“Running a marathon in Antarctica might sound crazy, but it resonates with our work at The Unlimited Child,” shares Wallis.
“Just as we committed months to preparing our minds and bodies for this freezing challenge, The Unlimited Child collaborates with incredible gogos (grannies) and caregivers who dedicate themselves to becoming skilled ECD practitioners for our youngest children.”
“Just like we couldn’t face the harsh Antarctic environment without the appropriate gear and support, these remarkable women need proper training and resources to carry out their extraordinary work.”
“When equipped with the right tools, they can create beautiful, safe environments where children can thrive and learn, even in the toughest conditions.”
“I’ve witnessed it firsthand – both on the ice and within our ECD centres – when people receive the right support and are believed in, they can achieve things they never thought possible.”
As Iain, Wallis, and Ken reflect on their journey through the icy terrain, their message resonates clearly: Every step counts. Every child matters. Together, we can ensure that no child is overlooked.
For just R25 a month, a child can receive a year’s worth of quality early education, unlocking their potential for success.
To support this life-changing initiative or to discover more, visit: (https://theunlimitedchild.org/donate/)
