Warren smashes marathon challenge outside Town Hall

Former professional boxer Warren Sinden has once again proved to be the pride of Welshpool by completing an astonishing marathon challenge outside the Town Hall, and has shared a touching message for all those feeling a challenge of their own with mental health.

‘BigRig’ Warren, who enjoyed massive local support during his pro fights, runs the Rigorous Gym these days and took on a challenge to ‘ski’ a marathon – 42,195m – on a SkiErg simulator in the town centre at the weekend.

He smashed it, clocking a time under two hours and 45 minutes, and has raised a whopping £1,543 to date for the MIND mental health charity, in memory of a friend that he lost to suicide during lockdown.

“Thanks for all the support and the donations and a massive thanks to everyone who came down to support on the day, especially those who were there at the start and stayed until the end,” Warren told us.

“It meant the world to me, cheering me on, especially the kids from the gym. It was the difference.”

Warren took on the challenge the day after World Mental Health Day, and he has used the platform to encourage more people to pursue interests to help with their mental wellbeing.

“I had a mate that I was chatting to a lot during lockdown,” Warren said. “I guess we were both a bit lonely, but he took his own life.

“One night, he was asking to ring me and I texted him back to say ‘sorry I am about to fall asleep’, and then that night he did what he did. I felt pretty crap because I wasn’t really there for someone who was reaching out. So, I am dedicating this to Giovanni and also a lot of other people that aren’t with us anymore. A lot of people were in my head and heart.”

Warren said that he hopes that he can inspire other people to combat any mental health challenges by taking up something that they feel passionate about.

“The mission of was to try and encourage people that are a bit down, lost or fed-up to go and find what makes you tick,” he said.

“It doesn’t have to be sporting exercise like this. It can be fishing, play golf, I don’t know, gardening. Go and find that thing that is away from work, partner, kids and it is for you. Something you are passionate about and you enjoy. It has worked for me.”

Warren said he already has another challenge in his mind but doubts it will involve skiing.

“My hands are killing me and my hands are cramping up! But I hope I have done you proud.”

There is still chance to donate through https://www.justgiving.com/page/warren-sinden-4.