Cookie Monster smashes most people's best times

SCORES of runners were undeterred by yesterday's sunshine and took to the 10-mile course in a wide range of colourful fancy dress.
By The Newsroom
Published 23rd Oct 2016, 23:37 BST
Updated 25th Oct 2016, 18:14 BST
Carlo van Leeuwen, right, finished the Great South Tun in 1 hour, 9 minutes, dressed as The Cookie MonsterCarlo van Leeuwen, right, finished the Great South Tun in 1 hour, 9 minutes, dressed as The Cookie Monster
Carlo van Leeuwen, right, finished the Great South Tun in 1 hour, 9 minutes, dressed as The Cookie Monster

Carlo van Leeuwen crossed the Great South Run finish line in 1hr 09mins despite being dressed as the Cookie Monster.

The 35-year-old, from Itchen, was running to raise cash for The Motor Neurone Disease Association. He was inspired to help the charity after his father Cor died from the disease five years ago.

He has raised more than £8,000 over the past five years.

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He said: ‘It was very warm in my suit, but well worth the effort.’

Carlo was joined by other MND Association fundraisers Chris Maple, 43, from Salisbury, who ran with a unicorn attached to him, and Gary Skerratt, 52, from Buckland, who ran dressed as Superwoman. Gary said: ‘It was a fantastic race. The crowds really keep you going.’

Other unusual fancy dress saw superheroes, First World War soldiers, SpongeBob Squarepants, werewolves, men dressed as Disney princesses and much more.