This triathlete is aiming to break a Guinness World Record for the North West Air Ambulance Charity

On Sunday, 27 April, Triathlete Paul Bradford will be lining up at the start of the London Marathon not just as a runner, but as a man on a mission.

He’ll be dressed head-to-toe in a custom-built 3D helicopter costume, aiming to break the Guinness World Record for the fastest marathon run in a three-dimensional aircraft outfit.

Why? Because three years ago, he was given a 10% chance of survival, but he’s still here thanks to the North West Air Ambulance Charity (NWAA).

Paul explains:

“In 2022, just weeks before I was due to compete in the Ironman World Championship – a race I’d trained for my whole life – a cycling accident left me with a traumatic brain injury, a fractured skull, broken ribs and a shattered jaw. I was fighting for my life. The NWAA crew delivered critical care at the roadside and got me to hospital fast. Without them, I wouldn’t be here to tell the tale.

In 2024, I finally made it to Kona, Hawaii, to complete the Ironman I missed. I dedicated every mile to NWAA and raised over £5,000 in the process. But it wasn’t enough. I wanted to go even further – to give back in a way that reflects just how much the charity means to me.

So, this year, I’m running the London Marathon dressed as a helicopter, wrapped in NWAA’s bold blue and yellow colours. The current Guinness World Record stands at 3 hours, 34 minutes and 27 seconds. My goal? To cross the finish line in under 3 hours and 30 minutes.”

Paul has been training seven days a week; running, cycling, swimming, and has even built a greenhouse at home to simulate extreme heat, which boosts the body’s ability to carry oxygen.

Paul continues: “It sounds mad, but it works. I’ve also lost four kilos in body weight to offset the weight of the four-kilo costume. Every second counts. This will be a marathon like no other. The big unknown? Running in a bulky, aerodynamic costume for 26.2 miles. But I’m determined.

I’m hugely grateful to the School of Engineering at the University of Liverpool for designing and fitting the frame for both comfort and aerodynamics. And to Andy from Phoenix Autotrim in Hoylake, who wrapped the costume in ultra-light, waterproof fabric, and brought NWAA’s colours to life.

This isn’t just about breaking records. It’s about giving back. And it’s about helping NWAA stay operational 365 days a year, so they can save lives just like mine.”

To support my journey, and this incredible charity, visit my JustGiving page or visit the North West Air Ambulance Charity (NWAA) website here.

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