A Royal Marines Commando from Holbeach will attempt to break a weighty world record this weekend to raise money for a mental health charity.
On Saturday, November 4, Sam Dalrymple (29) and his 11 team mates will between them attempt to deadlift 800,000kg – four times the weight of The Angel of the North – in 12 hours. The current world record stands at 762,140kg.
Sam and the team are raising money for Rock 2 Recovery, a charity that supports servicemen and veterans struggling with mental health issues.
Sam, who joined the Marines in 2006 and served in Afghanistan, said that within the forces there is a “massive welfare system in place” for people who experience post traumatic stress disorder. But more support is needed for people who leave the services, he said.
Sam said: “Since Afghanistan has wound down a little bit, it’s become a lot more apparent that people are struggling,” adding a number of people he has served with are having a tough time.
Sam said he is pleased mental health issues are now more openly discussed both in and out of the forces.
Sam’s contribution to the cause is making the most of his physical abilities.
Growing up in South Holland, Sam was a keen sportsman and this year has had trials for the Team GB bobsleigh team.
He has been weightlifting for ten years and training for the record-breaker challenge for the last six months. At the weekend he undertook 600 reps of 105kg. On the day, the team will have to perform a massive 1,000 reps each to succeed in their goal.
To sponsor Sam and his team, visit www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/charlotte-berry-1
To find out more about Rock 2 Recovery’s work, visit https://rock2recovery.co.uk
