For the last 33 years, Jeff Mitchell has been more than just a dedicated coach; he's been a pillar of the Basingstoke community. Spending four nights a week coaching amateur boxing, Jeff has profoundly influenced the lives of countless people, both young and old. His commitment to the sport was never about recognition or personal gain; it was about giving back, empowering others, and shaping the next generation of athletes and individuals. Jeff’s sacrifices have been immeasurable. Not only has he given up his evenings for over three decades, but he has also spent most weekends driving people all across the UK to compete, ensuring that no matter their background or circumstance, each of his boxers had a shot at pursuing their dreams.

The relationships Jeff forged went far beyond the boxing ring. He instilled values of discipline, resilience, and teamwork in everyone he coached, leaving a lasting impact on their lives. His tireless dedication has woven him into the fabric of Basingstoke, where he is loved, admired, and respected by the community that has seen first-hand how his efforts have transformed lives.

In 2015, I introduced Jeff to the world of ultra-running by convincing him to sign up for a 50km race. I told him it was only a tiny bit further than a marathon and that he could "just roll out of bed and do it"—a slight understatement, but one he rose to! At that same event, I took on my first-ever endurance race—a 12-hour event where I managed to cover 60 miles. Jeff enjoyed the experience and seemed pretty impressed by my 60 miles, but I knew it wouldn’t stop there. A few weeks later, I told him to check his email. He went mental at me at first (haha), as I had entered him into another race, one even more challenging—‘Race to The King,’ a 53-mile race across the South Downs, which we tackled together in 2016.

Race day came, and sure enough, Jeff embraced it. I crossed the finish line ahead of him and, as a special surprise, I had picked up his son from Basingstoke. We met Jeff 1.5 miles from the finish line, and the three of us ran the final stretch together. That moment sealed it—Jeff was hooked. From that point on, ultra-running became a major part of his life, and he went on to complete far more ultras than any of us, earning nine 100-mile buckles along the way.

Our first 100-mile race together took place in 2017, and it was a special one. Jeff, myself, and our friend Greg were able to raise around £3,000 for charity, one of which, ironically, was St. Michael’s Hospice—the very same hospice that is now providing Jeff with primary care in his final chapter. Little did we know then that this organization, which we supported through our running, would later become such an important part of Jeff’s own journey.

But the Arc of Attrition remained his white whale. In 2020, to celebrate my 30th birthday and Jeff's 50th, we attempted the Arc together. I barely managed to scrape through and finish, but Jeff, despite his best efforts, didn't make it that year. Undeterred, he returned every year since, always chasing that elusive Arc buckle. Unfortunately, the Arc is one of the most gruelling races out there, and while Jeff's determination never faltered, the finish line kept slipping out of reach.

In June 2023, Jeff was diagnosed with a 50mm Grade 4 Brain Tumour. The news was devastating, but even as his health began to decline, Jeff’s indomitable spirit remained unchanged. He continued to run, despite suffering from seizures and, eventually, full paralysis. His dream of earning his 10th ultra buckle and finally conquering the Arc remained alive, even as his body weakened. He poured everything into achieving that goal, refusing to let his illness define him.

Now, Jeff is in St. Michael's Hospice, the same hospice we raised funds for during that first 100-mile race in 2017. In true Jeff fashion, he never stopped dreaming of completing the Arc of Attrition. While his health now prevents him from toeing the start line, the Arc race organizers have graciously allowed me to take his place in 2025. It is a profound honour, and I will be running in Jeff’s name, determined to get him that 10th buckle.

Jeff’s story is one of extraordinary dedication—to his community, to his friends, and to the dreams he pursued with every fibre of his being. His 33 years of service to the people of Basingstoke, his countless weekends devoted to ensuring others had the chance to compete, and his undying passion for ultra-running, even in the face of terminal illness, are testaments to the kind of man Jeff is. He embodies the very essence of resilience, heart, and community spirit.

As I prepare for the 2025 Arc of Attrition, I will carry Jeff’s legacy with me. This is not just a race; it’s a tribute to a man who gave his all—to the sport, to the people he loved, and to the community that is better because of him. Together, we will get that 10th buckle. Together, we will cross that finish line. And together, we will honour the life of a man who has given so much to others.

Thank you, Jeff, for everything you’ve done and for inspiring us all to be better, fight harder, and never give up. #forjeff