UK Runners Attempt World Record in Samoa to Support Children of Alcoholics

By Jeannie Penehuro/

Apia, SAMOA – 22 July 2026 – Four UK runners – Calum Best, Josh Connolly, Ian Stringer, and Scott Murdoch are taking on an extraordinary challenge to raise awareness about children growing up in homes affected by alcohol addiction.

They will run two marathons in Samoa, crossing the International Date Line, and aim to set a new world record, all to highlight the struggles faced by these children.

The challenge begins in Samoa, where the runners will complete six laps along the Seawall in Apia, from the Sheraton Hotel to the Peninsula.

They chose Samoa because of its geographical significance and the strong support they receive from local communities and the British High Commission.

After finishing the first marathon, the team will then fly 80 miles across to American Samoa, crossing the International Date Line, arriving “yesterday,” and run a second marathon.

This means they will run two marathons back-to-back, one in Samoa and one in American Samoa- even before officially completing the first.

The entire effort is officially recognized as a potential world record.

Why This Challenge Matters
The runners want more than just to break a record.

They aim to raise awareness about NACOA (National Association for Children of Alcoholics), a UK charity that receives around 3,000 calls annually from children seeking help.

All donations will support programs in UK schools that help children affected by parental alcohol abuse.

These funds also provide resources for teachers and professionals working with these children.

Scott Murdoch (runners) emphasizes that they will be visiting the children in the Samoa Victim Support Group (SVSG).

The British High Commissioner, His Excellency Andrew Nethercott, commends SVSG and also recognizes Queen Camilla’s role as the Royal Patron of SVSG and expresses confidence in the UK and Samoa’s partnership.

The British High Commissioner, His Excellency, Andrew Nethercott.

More Than Endurance – A Call for Courage and Openness
This challenge goes beyond physical endurance.

It focuses on courage – showing that talking openly about struggles and experiences related to alcohol can be powerful.

Nethercott commends the runners for their bravery, noting that flying across the world and running two marathons takes real guts.

They hope their openness will inspire others, encouraging children and adults to speak about their experiences and seek support.

Through the support of Iceland Foods Charitable Foundation, NACOA has already reached more than 100 UK schools, providing vital support and resources to thousands of young people.

The charity strives to help children feel seen and heard.

They believe that increased openness will help break the silence around parental alcohol abuse- especially among men who often feel shame or stigma.

The runners want their journey to inspire others to speak out.

Their efforts show that sometimes, the biggest challenge isn’t just the miles run, it’s the courage to make a difference.

“This is not just a story about courage or NGOs. It’s a story about bravery,” stated High Commissioner Andrew Nethercott.