Fiona Oakes

Fiona Oakes is a British distance runner, animal rights advocate, and the founder of the Tower Hill Stables Animal Sanctuary. She is renowned for her extraordinary achievements in marathon running and her dedication to veganism, which she credits for her endurance and recovery. Oakes has set four Guinness World Records in running and is an influential figure in promoting veganism in sports.

Early Life

Fiona Oakes was born in Chesterfield, England. From a young age, she showed a keen interest in animal welfare and athletics. Despite undergoing a major knee operation at 17, which led to the removal of her kneecap and predictions that she would never run competitively, Oakes has defied expectations by becoming an elite marathon runner.

Running Career

Oakes' running career is marked by her participation in some of the world's most challenging marathons and ultra-marathons. She has competed in the Marathon des Sables, a six-day, 251 km ultramarathon in the Sahara Desert, and the North Pole Marathon, the world's northernmost marathon. Oakes holds the women's record for the fastest aggregate time to complete a marathon on all seven continents and the North Pole.

Animal Rights Advocacy

Beyond her athletic achievements, Fiona Oakes is deeply committed to animal rights and veganism. In 1996, she founded the Tower Hill Stables Animal Sanctuary to provide a home for abused and abandoned animals. The sanctuary, located in Essex, England, cares for over 600 animals, including horses, pigs, goats, and poultry. Oakes' veganism is not only a personal ethical choice but also a central aspect of her advocacy, as she aims to demonstrate the health and performance benefits of a plant-based diet.

Public Recognition and Influence

Fiona Oakes has been featured in various media outlets for her athletic achievements and her work with animals. She is the subject of the documentary "Running for Good," which highlights her participation in the Marathon des Sables and her motivations. Oakes uses her platform to raise awareness about animal rights and the environmental benefits of veganism, inspiring others to consider the impact of their dietary choices.

Personal Life

Fiona Oakes lives at the Tower Hill Stables Animal Sanctuary with her partner and the animals they care for. Her life revolves around her twin passions: running and animal welfare. Despite the demands of her athletic training and managing the sanctuary, Oakes remains committed to her causes, embodying the principles of compassion and perseverance.

See Also

• Veganism
• Animal welfare
• Marathon running
• Guinness World Records