Philanthropists embark on marathon of marathons

Some people run a marathon for charity but two athletes, a Maltese and a Briton, are about to run 27 in as many days and EU states to “spread a message of solidarity” and raise funds in aid of charity projects in each country.

During the 27x3 Kinder European Endurance Challenge, Nathan Farrugia and John Wilton-Davies will spread the word about the need for more inclusive societies.

“This is a really huge challenge that’s never been done before,” said Mr Farrugia, who last year ran the gruelling Marathon des Sables to raise money for Facing Africa, a UK charity, and Inspire, a charity he heads.

The two athletes met at last year’s Marathon des Sables.

They will be followed by a motor home throughout most of the route with nutrition, supplies, a physiotherapist and other supporting crew on board.

Each of the 27 marathons will be run on a specific route in every major city and running clubs are being invited to encourage their members to run the marathon with the two athletes not only as a show of solidarity but also to raise awareness about the cause.

Funds raised from Malta and part of the funds raised from the 26 other countries will go to Inspire and to support The Daniel Delicata Foundation in building a play area at the Children’s Ward in Mater Dei Hospital. The marathon undertaking starts on September 11 in Malta and will continue in Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Germany, Denmark, Sweden, the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, France, England, Ireland, Portugal, Spain, Italy, Slovenia, Austria, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria and Greece to finish in Cyprus on October 7.