Russ Cook, the extraordinary West Sussex endurance athlete known globally as the ‘Hardest Geezer’, has been awarded an Honorary Master of Sport degree by the University of Chichester at its 2025 graduation ceremony. Worthing local Russ has inspired millions through his relentless pursuit of the impossible.
In 2024, he became the first person in recorded history to run the entire length of Africa—from Cape Agulhas in South Africa to Cape Angela in Tunisia—covering over 10,000 miles across 16 countries in 352 days. Along the way, he overcame armed robbery, illness, injury, and extreme terrain, all while raising over £1 million for The Running Charity and Sandblast.
Russ’s achievements extend beyond physical endurance. His journey is a testament to the power of purpose, community, and mental fortitude. In 2025, he completed another monumental challenge: running the full length of New Zealand in just 73 days. Through these endeavours, Russ has not only raised vital funds but also awareness for youth homelessness and the Saharawi people.
We sat down with Russ to ask how he feels about his honorary degree and if he has any words of advice for our new graduates.
How do you feel about receiving this honorary degree?
“It’s a big honour and not something that I thought would ever come my way. I’m surprised and very grateful to accept this.”
What have you learnt through your incredible endurance runs?
“I’ve learnt that I’m more capable than I ever gave myself credit for. All of my successes have been built on failure and learning from it. Don’t be scared of it, it’s all part of the process. When you fail, dust yourself off and try again.
“It’s not so much about the achievement but about the journey along the way, like the meal we shared with a poor Nigerian family who kindly invited us to stay the night in their home.”
Do you any advice for our students who are graduating this week?
“My advice to students is don’t be scared to fail and keep attacking life with as much passion as you can.”
What’s next for you?
“I’ve just set up my own adventure travel company, which will help other people to really experience the world through some amazing adventures including treks to Everest Base Camp, Machu Picchu and Kilimanjaro.”