Azeem's a real Tough Mudder!

RECORD breaker . . . Azeem Amir with former teacher Sam Dainty

A 17-YEAR-OLD has secured a world record for completing the Tough Mudder Challenge.

Azeem Amir became the youngest blind person in the world to finish the gruelling endurance course.

His fundraising total for the Manchester Royal Eye Hospital stands at more than £4,000, with donations still being accepted.

Azeem said: "I had the crazy idea of attempting one of the toughest events on the planet but not only did we smash that, we also smashed our charity target. On the day I was the youngest there and the fact we'd completed it without picking up any injuries and got the world record hit me, and it was just an amazing feeling.

"I was lucky enough to have members of my very supportive family including my dad and uncle there watching and it was really nice to share the moment together.

"I am a blind student who doesn't allow his disability to overshadow his ability."

The teenager, who trained for the event in Oldham, undertook the 12-mile obstacle race alongside 10,000 others on September 10 to "give something back".

Guided by his former PE teacher Sam Dainty, Azeem tackled rope climbs, crawled through mud under barbed wire, swam through ice water and ran through live wires.

During training at Crossfit, Derker, Azeem began doing body exercises including weights, pull-ups and endurance training in preparation.

The keen footballer, who competes in the National Blind Football League, previously took part in the 10k Great Manchester Run. The Rochdale Sixth Form College student said: "I completed the greatest challenge of my life, raising money for those who have allowed me to see something instead of nothing.

Efforts

"We chose the eye hospital because they have cared for me for 17 years and I want to give something back to them. Thank you to everyone who has donated ­- there is still time if you haven't."

On his justgiving page he added: "With the money raised the hospital can continue its excellent treatment, care and research to enhance the lives of thousands of patients each year."

To donate, visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/AzeemsToughMudder.