A group of athletes will push themselves to the limit of human endurance in a punishing multi-discipline challenge all in the name of a fantastic local cause.

Over seven days, the team of seven will complete a series of tough challenges across track, road, bike and water to complete a combined 60 of the hardest miles.

Dubbed the 60 for 60 Challenge, the event between September 6 and September 13 is being organised by sports coaches at The Extra Yard in Hartlepool.

It is in honour of The PFC Trust charity’s founder Frances Connolly who celebrates her 60th birthday this year, with all money raised during the charity’s UChangeLives month going directly back into the community.

Joe Wilson, Jacob Brown, George Craggs, Adam Brooks, Max Creasey, Zander Gribbon, Keith Hutchinson and Paul Hewitson are taking on the 60 For 60 Challenge.

placeholder image — Joe Wilson, Jacob Brown, George Craggs, Adam Brooks, Max Creasey, Zander Gribbon, Keith Hutchinson and Paul Hewitson are taking on the 60 For 60 Challenge.

Each athlete will take on a different challenge that involves them running, swimming or cycling at levels of intensity and pace not normally seen.

It was the idea of Hartlepool speed coach Keith Hutchinson, former World Masters Athletics Championships, to celebrate what Frances has done with The PFC Trust to make a difference to so many lives.

Team manager Paul Hewitson, of The Extra Yard, said: “She has set such an example, and we wanted to help through sport, as we all know how vital it is for young people to live healthier lives.

“It is hard to put into words how difficult each of these challenges actually is. The swimming and biking are at breathtaking speeds, and what these guys are doing is much tougher than many could ever imagine.”

Team manager Paul Hewitson (left) and Keith Hutchinson with The PFC Trust's founder and president Frances Connolly. Pictures: Chris Booth/Rephrase.

The eight days will culminate on September 13, at the iconic Great North Run when half-marathon specialist Max Creasey will attempt to complete the 13.1-mile course in under 70 minutes.

Frances said: “I am overwhelmed they all wanted to do this event and mark my 60th birthday in this way; what a way to mark the occasion than for them to give back to the community and support the work of the charity like this.

“To see this fantastic challenge come together, and to know the money raised will be distributed right back into the community through The PFC Trust, makes it extra special.”

Organisers are now looking for corporate sponsors.

To donate go to www.justgiving.com/campaign/60for60challenge or if you are interested in sponsorship email [email protected]