A STRONGMAN set a new world record by pulling along a 2.2tonne Land Rover in memory of his friend who died of ovarian cancer.
Commonwealth athlete Kevin Brown poignantly pulled the car a staggering 69 metres – the same age as former Stoke Prior teacher Maxine Riley.
Maxine was told by doctors she would only live for two years but she went on to enjoy six before her passing last year.
Kevin completed the stunt in 45.58 seconds with Maxine’s husband Richard at the wheel.
It was a world record because it took place on a sloping cycling track in Halesowen.
The occasion marked the launch of Richard’s new book, ‘Our Cancer Journey’, which charters the ‘remarkable years’ that the couple spent together after Maxine’s diagnosis.
“Her positive mental attitude made it so much easier to get through the situation for both of us,” said Richard.
“We had so many happy experiences and it meant I didn’t really grieve because so many positive things came out of this time.”
It was this ‘can do’ attitude which initially inspired discus thrower Kevin to compete at such a high level.
Richard, a former PE teacher, mentored him after meeting Kevin at a leisure centre attached to a Small Heath school.
“I helped Kevin believe in himself to become British discus champion and I am so proud of what he has achieved,” added Richard.
“He is a superhero and did so well powering through even though he told me that his legs felt like jelly.
“He is proof that it is amazing what you can do if you believe.”
Richard is giving away his book for free but is asking for donations to be split between the ovarian cancer charity Ovacome and the Primrose Hospice.
Email [email protected] to order your copy.