Nathan Farrugia’s ambitious challenge to run 27 back-to-back marathons in the 27 EU countries in so many days successfully raised €68,468 for local and overseas children’s charities. Thanks to Ferrero France who covered all the costs of the event all public funds collected went directly to the chosen charity projects.  These included Inspire’s programmes for disabled children and funding of equipment for the Mater Dei children’s play area project, managed by the Daniel Delicata Memorial Association. A further ten overseas charities benefitted from 75% of the funds raised in their country.

The event marked the European Year of Volunteering. The marathon kicked off in Malta finishing off in Cyprus.  Each 42.2km marathon ran on a specific route in each city.

“It was an amazing experience that will stay with me and the team for a while,” said Nathan Farrugia. We achieved a world record but more importantly spread the word of solidarity and volunteering across the EU in this very particular year. The fact we managed to raise so much money for these charities was the icing on the cake. Still today, people come up to me and congratulate us on the event, and say they have been inspired to start exercising, running, competing and even volunteering. Let’s hope they continue to be self-inspired by their own perseverance and keep up their plans to live a more healthy and meaningful life.  I’d like to thank everyone who supported and donated to this challenge, Cliff Sultana and Lawrence Cachia who accompanied me on the challenge, my colleagues and friends, the Inspire team who provided all the back-up, Ferrero, Kinder+Sport, and the other sponsors who supported my “mad” idea and Deirdre and my family who put up with me throughout all the planning and preparations, as well as during the whole month away.”

Across the countries where he ran Nathan and his team raised awareness on the need for more social inclusion.  Nathan ran as a volunteer, taking time off from work.  The Challenge was also supported by Urban Sports, Gasan Enterprises, Scotts, Ice Watch, Garmin Medcomms and Alberta.