First man to run around the world

Briton is first man to run around the world
London, Mar 27 (AFP) A British man was today officially certified by Guinness World Records as the first person to have run around the world.

Robert Garside, 40, said he was "so happy and relieved" after receiving his certificate in London as it had taken him nearly four years to fight claims that he had exaggerated his feat.

The self-described "Runningman" ran 56,000 kilometres across 30 countries, taking five years and eight months to complete his unprecedented journey.

Garside got more than just blisters and a certificate to show for his efforts.

"I met my wife on the run in Venezuela and she has been very supportive," he said.

In December 1996, Garside set out from Piccadilly Circus in the heart of London on his first attempt to jog around the world.

Then a 29-year-old psychology student, that attempt had to be abandoned when war broke out in Afghanistan.

It was only on his fourth try -- beginning at India Gate in New Delhi the following year -- that he succeeded, ending up back in the Indian capital in June 2003.

Since finishing in June 2003, the Briton has faced accusations that he was exaggerating his achievements and has spent the years since compiling evidence.

Marco Frigatti, Guinness's head of records, was convinced that Garside followed the rules.

His team ploughed though video footage, local news reports, credit card receipts and statements from witnesses saying Garside ran the route.

"It is genuine," Frigatti confirmed. (AFP)

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