Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) volunteer Mark Basson will attempt to break a world record next week when he runs a half marathon in full firefighting gear. 

The Wanaka carpenter will compete in Saturday’s (May 1) Southern Lakes Half Marathon with the hope of beating the three hour, 20 minute and 40 second record time, and he’ll be doing it while wearing more than 23 kilograms of gear, including breathing apparatus.

The half marathon follows the Cardrona Valley Road to Pembroke Park, starting just below the entrance to the Cardrona ski field. 

Mark said completing the event, in all his gear, will be a test of mental stamina.

And it isn’t just about records, it's about starting conversations, Mark said. He is using the run to raise money and awareness for the Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand. 

“There is that stigma, especially with males, that you’re too much of a man to want to talk about it,” Mark said. “I was one of those men, I was a man’s man and to be able to go to talk to someone was really hard.”

“But it has literally made the world of difference. So I would like more people to just go out and talk.”

Mark has set up an online fundraiser and he hopes to raise $5,000.

The Southern Lakes Half Marathon, which has taken place since 2008, has sold out for 2021. There is also a shorter 10km run as part of the event which is also full. 

Mark hopes to shave five minutes off the current record-holder’s time, and claim the Guinness World Record for the fastest half marathon in full firefighting gear including breathing apparatus.

Learn more about Mark and why he is taking on the challenge.

The Southern Lakes Half Marathon will take place this Saturday (May 1).

PHOTO: Supplied