Barnet boxer launches 1,800-mile challenge for suicide prevention charity

Barnet-based Darren Barker has commenced an extensive 1,800-mile endurance challenge, 'The Longest Round', in tribute to former world champion boxer Ricky Hatton. Mr Hatton died by suicide in 2025 at the age of 46. The challenge is raising money for the Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM), a charity dedicated to suicide prevention, for which Mr Hatton served as an ambassador.

The Challenge Route

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Mr Barker, who was born and lives in Barnet, began his journey in Edinburgh on Wednesday morning. The route involves cycling to Dover, followed by a 21-mile swim across the English Channel. From Calais, he will cycle to Gibraltar before undertaking a further nine-mile open water swim across the Strait of Gibraltar to Morocco.

Motivation for the Challenge

Mr Barker stated his motivation for undertaking 'The Longest Round' stemmed from a conversation with Ricky Hatton last September. He described the impact of Mr Hatton's subsequent death as striking and hard-hitting. Mr Barker expressed a desire to honour Mr Hatton, spread awareness about mental health, and support those who are struggling. He emphasised the importance of speaking out and seeking help, noting that "Strength isn't silence."

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“This challenge and the charities mean an awful lot, this is about changing lives and it's a huge opportunity to make a difference.”

Darren Barker

Simon Gunning, CEO of CALM, commended Mr Hatton's commitment to raising awareness and praised Mr Barker's efforts. Mr Gunning highlighted Mr Hatton's belief that "Bad times won’t last forever, you think they will, but they won’t if you go and speak to someone." He added that Mr Barker is not only raising funds but also continuing the message Mr Hatton championed, stating, "We can’t thank him enough for choosing to raise funds for CALM and show there’s always a way forward if you’re struggling."