Jay Watt, a paramedic and former soldier, is set to run the Edinburgh Marathon on Sunday wearing a full suit of medieval armour to raise funds for Scottish Action for Mental Health (SAMH). The 49-year-old from Edinburgh aims to demonstrate that "it's OK to have a chink in your armour" while supporting mental health awareness.
A Gruelling Challenge
Watt will carry 20kg of armoured plate and chainmail as he tackles the 26-mile course. This is not his first unusual costume; he has previously run as Buzz Lightyear, aliens, and a giant rabbit for charity. Since 2011, he has participated in every Edinburgh Marathon.
Watt explained his motivation: "In my job, I have encountered patients struggling with their mental health, so this year I wanted to raise awareness of the support SAMH give and raise money to help them continue their important work. This is my 20th marathon, and I’ve run in big mascot costumes before, but this year I wanted to break through the stigma of mental health and let people know it’s okay to have a chink in your armour."
Another Knight on the Course
Interestingly, Watt will not be the only knight competing. Andrew Gray, 28, will also run in full medieval plate armour, aiming to break the Guinness World Record for the fastest marathon in armour, currently set at six hours, 46 minutes, and 59 seconds.
Edinburgh-based blacksmith Kev Paxton assisted Watt with alterations to his armour, which Watt has worn during skiing, boxing, kayaking, and other activities. Watt added: "Kev has helped me adjust the suit so I can do these activities in it and raise as much awareness as I can. By taking part in these sports and fitness activities, I am looking to encourage a positive vibe about mental health and encouraging people to reach out."
