The Challenge: 26 in '26
The mission is simple in theory, yet slightly terrifying in practice: To run 26 marathons in 2026. That averages out to one marathon every fortnight for an entire year. No big deal, right?
But... Why?
Mostly because once the idea took root in my brain, it refused to leave. It was a ludicrous suggestion to myself - especially since, at the time of conception, I was still nursing injuries and questioning if I could finish one marathon, let alone twenty six of them.But I knew that if I didn’t lace up and try, I’d spend the rest of the year second-guessing myself. I’d rather be tired than wonder 'what if..?'
Why Now?
Blame the maths. It's 2026, and there are 26.2 miles in a marathon. The symmetry was too perfect to ignore. Had I waited until 2027, running 27 marathons just doesn't have the same ring to it (and my knees would likely file for divorce).
In a world where people are running across Africa or circumnavigating the globe, my challenge might seem modest. However, it's a significant undertaking that allows me to test my limits without having to quit my job or disappear from my family for months at a time. It's an ultra-challenge designed for the everyday life.
The Ground Rules
To keep myself honest (and to make sure I'm not just counting my steps to the fridge), I’ve set some ground rules:
- No Instalment Plans: Cumulative miles don't count. I can't run 5 miles a day and claim a marathon by Friday.
- The 'Same Day' Rule: The miles must be largely consecutive and completed within the same 24-hour window.
- The 'Top-Up' Strategy: If I run a shorter event, like an organised half marathon, I can run more miles afterwards, self-supported, to complete the full 26.2 miles. It's a great way to use the race atmosphere to fuel the lonely miles!
- DIY is Welcome: I'm not made of money, so not every run will be an official organised event with a medal. Self-supported solo marathons count just as much.