On Saturday, April 12th, local morris dancer Duncan Bhaskaran Brown will attempt to break the world record for the longest morris dancing marathon in Abingdon Marketplace. Dancing for over 11 hours, Duncan aims to raise funds for two important local charities while showcasing the rich tradition of Abingdon morris dancing.
The challenge will begin at 5.00 am with Duncan dancing continuously in full morris regalia, complete with a flower-covered hat, to the sound of traditional folk music. If successful, he will finish in front of a cheering crowd more than 11 hours later. The record attempt is officially recognised by Guinness World Records, with stringent guidelines and independent witnesses ensuring compliance with the rules.
Duncan will be supported by fellow morris dancers and a dedicated team to help him meet Guinness’s high standards ... and fellow morris lovers are welcome to add encouragement!
“I love dancing. Abingdon has a wonderful, energetic dancing style, as well as a historic tradition and amazing people,” said Duncan.
He is a proud member of the Abingdon Traditional Morris Dancers, a group with a history dating back to the 1600s. The group has performed at prestigious venues such as the Royal Albert Hall and Westminster Abbey and continues to uphold local traditions, including the historic election of the Mayor of Ock Street.
“Times are hard but morris dancers are generally a lucky bunch, at the very least we have great hats. I think we should do as much as we can to help people who are struggling,” Duncan said.
This event will raise money for two local charities:
● One Planet Abingdon – A volunteer-run hub dedicated to fighting climate change and promoting sustainability.
● Abingdon & District Volunteer Centre – A service providing transportation for vulnerable residents needing to attend vital medical appointments.
You can find his just giving page here: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/morrismarathon?utm_term=8b34zyrQZ
“There’s no training plan for endurance morris dancing, so we’ve had to write the book. I’m lucky to have the support of a few people in the high-performance world who have helped optimise my technique and endurance,” Duncan added. While some may view morris dancing as a gentle tradition, the step he will be using is highly energetic. Over the course of 11 hours, he is expected to lift his legs approximately 100,000 times and burn nearly 6,000 calories, making this a true test of stamina and endurance.
For media inquiries, interviews, or further information, please contact:
Duncan Bhaskaran Brown
07552 725 739
duncan [at] bhaskaranbrown.com