Ipswich Town fan to run to every away game in Premier League
Ipswich Town fan Callum Sparkes is taking his support for the club to a whole new level this season by running to every single one of their away games in the Premier League. The 30-year-old will cover at least 2,983 miles over the course of the season as he aims to raise money for the Ipswich Town Foundation.
The challenge begins with the trip to Manchester United, with Sparkes planning to cover the distance over seven days. The early part of the season will be particularly demanding, with Manchester United, Everton, Manchester City, and Hull among the first five away trips.
But April could prove the toughest test, with Sunderland and Newcastle coming in quick succession. Sparkes is no stranger to long-distance running, having covered around 620 miles in June. However, the biggest challenge will be managing the logistics of finding somewhere to sleep while running roughly 30 miles a day.
The fundraising is what ultimately makes the effort worthwhile for the Ipswich-born runner, who has a particular passion for tackling loneliness. "I just love hearing their stories," he said of older people. "There's so many people in Ipswich, we all shouldn't be lonely."
The Foundation's work with children also hits close to home, with Sparkes's two nephews recently attending one of its football camps. "If the money raised through this helps a child make a friend, or allows an older person someone to share football stories with, then it'll be worth it," he said.
Sparkes will be documenting each of his journeys on his Instagram page, and has a target of £19,000 to reach, £1,000 for each away game. The Ipswich Town Foundation's work is crucial in the local community, and Sparkes's efforts will undoubtedly make a significant impact.
What happened?
Ipswich Town fan Callum Sparkes is running to every away game in the Premier League, covering 2,983 miles and raising money for the Ipswich Town Foundation.
Why it matters for Ipswich Town
The Ipswich Town Foundation's work is essential in the local community, and Sparkes's efforts will undoubtedly make a significant impact. The fundraising will help support the Foundation's work with children and older people, tackling loneliness and making a difference in the community.
What comes next?
Sparkes will be documenting each of his journeys on his Instagram page, and has a target of £19,000 to reach, £1,000 for each away game. The Ipswich Town Foundation's work will continue to make a difference in the community, thanks to Sparkes's incredible efforts.
League standing (final 2025 table -- new season not yet under way): 2nd in Championship, 84 pts, 23W-15D-8L from 46 games, recent form WDDWD. Goals this season: 80 scored, 47 conceded (+33 goal difference). Title race: 11 points behind leaders Coventry.
