Retford man breaks Guinness World Record at the London Marathon
George is the fastest person to run a marathon as a cheerleader
Last updated 5 hours ago
George Carley, from Retford, is now a Guinness World Record holder after becoming the fastest person to run a marathon dressed as a cheerleader, at the London Marathon.
He crossed the finish line in two hours and 46 minutes. The previous record was 3 hours and 1 minute.
George told us where he got the idea from: "I came up with quite a comprehensive list of feasible records that not only I thought I could beat, but also that I could still try and run quite quickly.
"A cheerleader just seemed like the obvious choice. It was quite similar to normal racing attire. I wore a skirt and my mum made me a DIY cropped top and pom-poms.
"The pom-poms made it difficult to drink water. That was a challenge I had not quite anticipated," he said.
'I felt emotional'
George ran for the YMCA Doncaster charity. He told us why: "When I was deciding on a charity, it was important to pick a charity close to where I am from. I went to sixth form in Doncaster so it seemed to make sense.
"This is my third marathon, but it all started when I watched my Dad run the London Marathon ten years ago. That is ultimately what got me into the London Marathon.
"He did get a bit teary eyed when I crossed the finish line which was nice. I felt emotional around mile 25 to be honest," he said.
When asked if he would be tempted to try and break his record in the future, he told us: "I would be tempted but maybe not that record again.
"I would definitely be tempted to try out some of the other more flamboyant records. You see people in all kinds of crazy outfits and I think that could be even more challenging.
"On my original list was running as a wrestler or a tennis player. So, there are some that I would consider, but for now I want to revel in my current record before I consider doing any others" he said.