Spencer Matthews had been in the middle of his Ice Ultra when he began to have breathing difficulties, after taking a Covid test mid-race, he returned with a positive result.
His wife Vogue Williams shared Spencer’s emotional post on her story with the caption, “For those asking how @SpencerMatthews was getting on…” along with a heart emoji.
Spencer posted a picture of himself and Vogue’s trainer, John Belton, who also took part in the race. In the caption he explained, “I realise that there are far more important things happening in the world at the moment as our thoughts and prayers go out to the people of Ukraine, but for those kind enough to have followed my Ice Ultra here is a final update…
“The night before the race started I developed a chest infection and was placed on antibiotics. I had mentioned the first day was long and tough – breathing was becoming more and more difficult.
“After some consideration the medical team allowed me to continue into day 2 but by the end of that, the infection had gotten considerably worse. Given the time and effort spent, I was keen to crack on, particularly because we were deep into it by that stage and we’d travelled a long way to be there.
“However, due to the feverish nature of some of my symptoms, the medics administered a Covid test, which for the first time in two years, was positive and I was immediately withdrawn from the race. I had completed just under 100km.
“This was a devastating blow for me.
“I suggested running the last days completely isolated from others by having a different start time but unfortunately the team were unable to facilitate this as an option. The condition I was in could lead to long term lung damage in these Arctic environments. The temperatures on top of the mountains reached -36c and we were sustaining several hours of continued activity up there.
“Although my mindset is to power on through things and not give up, I understand the medical team’s decision to retire me from the race. The natural elements here can turn instantly and become problematic at the best of times.
“I placed 10th at the time of being pulled out, a result that I’m proud of.
“Thanks @BeyondTheUltimate for an epic race. The experience was sensational and managed professionally. Would be great to come back and finish some day.
“Finally, my positive test result thankfully didn’t affect any other runners’ races – you are all brilliant and deserve that finish!!
“Having isolated, my chest has recovered and I’m now testing negative. Congrats @johnbelton for coming 7th! Legend.”
What an achievement! Congratulations Spencer!
It’s a very busy time for the couple as they prepare to welcome their third child into their family along with preparation for a very exciting project Spencer is filming just two weeks after their baby is born.
Vogue explained on their podcast, “Spenny is going away. In fairness, it’s an amazing thing he’s doing.
“But, he has to go away two weeks after our third child is born. And he’s leaving me for up to five weeks.”
We wonder what this project could be, we will definitely be watching this space!