Avro manager Hampson tackles 48 hour run in aid of the club

Avro Football Club joint-manager James Hampson has completed a gruelling challenge to raise funds for the club in the absence of revenue streams.

The former Droylsden striker has pushed himself to his physical limits by running four miles, every four hours, for 48 hours.

James, who alongside co-boss Lee O’Brien has guided Avro to back-to-back promotions, started his challenge at 8am on Friday and completed it on Sunday morning at 4am, covering a total distance of 48 miles.

He says he was inspired to take up the challenge after the Manchester Marathon, which he had been training for to raise funds for Macmillan Cancer Support, alongside the management team of O’Brien and Paul Armstrong, was postponed for obvious reasons. In the hope of retaining his fitness and raising some much-needed funds for the club, James accepted the challenge and now hopes people can rally round in support of the club during a difficult time financially. 

Speaking to Reporter Sport halfway through the challenge, James said: “I’ve been reading a book by an ex U.S marine, David Goggins ,and this is a challenge he does every year.

“There were five who originally said they would do it but as of 8am yesterday there was only the two of us. I received a text at 5am on Friday  saying his knee had blown up and he couldn’t walk, so I’m on my own for the last five runs. 

“The sleep deprivation will no doubt hit today, but I’m in high spirits despite my knees and hips throbbing with pain.

“With everything going on there was never a mention of getting sponsored but a few people asked about it, so if through my pain and suffering I can raise a little money for Avro along the way it’s a plus. As you know, we’re heavily reliant on volunteers and sponsorship so every little helps.”

Due to the nationwide lockdown, the the North West Counties Football League, in accordance with FA ruling, cancelled the 2019/20 season and subsequently expunged all results. Avro finished mid-table in what marked their first stint in the Premier Division. Reflecting on the decision and the season as a whole, James said: “With regards to the season I feel a points per game decision would have been fairer, as we benefitted from it last year and the likes of 1874 Northwich and Rylands were the standout teams for me. 

“Obviously it means myself and Lee can take the lessons from last year and have a good go at it next year whenever we start back up.”

James said competing in the Premier Division for the first time was a real eye opener, but he hopes the management team can learn from the experience and kick on next season - whenever that may start. “Avro have come a long way in a short space of time and we certainly needed our eyes opening as to what we needed to compete at this level, and we’ve been working harder than ever behind the scenes to ensure we right the wrongs from last season.”

Those wishing to donate can do so via the following link: https://www.paypal.me/avrojfc