Eddie Izzard calls off Mandela Marathons.

Words: Caroline Foran

Despite having ran the equivalent of 43 marathons in 51 days back in 2009 for Sport Relief, Eddie Izzard has been forced to put a stop to his latest adventure. 

Honouring the accomplishments of Nelson Mandela, Izzard had planned to run 27 marathons in 27 days, reflecting the number of years the former South African president had spent in prison. Alas after just four days, Izzard took to Facebook to say that "Unfortunately, I have had to put my attempt on hold due to unforeseen medical complications that have arisen."

The 50 year old comedian continued that said 'complications' had arisen from "a multitude of factors including severe terrain, humidity and altitude" in South Africa.

All is not lost for Izzard however, who promised: "I wish to say that my attempt is not over and I will return to South Africa and run the 27 marathons and finish this story. I owe that to Nelson Mandela who has inspired the world to struggle and succeed no matter what obstacles are thrown at us."

The money raised was to go to the Nelson Mandela Foundation and other South African charities while a documentary was being made to be broadcast on Sky, later this autumn.

Eddie Izzard comes to Ireland to perform on the following 2013 dates:

25th May, the odyssey arena, belfast - Tickets £40

26th May, the O2, Dublin - Tickets €49.50

Story by EI Team | 09:00 | Friday 25th May 2012 | Comedy

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Comments

• ShankillDublin

  If he's playing in Ireland this weekend how could he have done all those marathons in South Africa?

  Posted 12:50 | Fri 25th May 2012

• carolinka

  dates are in 2013 :)

  Posted 13:56 | Fri 25th May 2012

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