Marvin’s daring challenge: running 26 marathons in support of Holland Bloorview
Inspired by his friend Bernard, who once ran one marathon a week for 42 weeks, avid runner Marvin kickstarted his own marathon challenge in 2025, but with a fundraising twist.
As part of Ready, Set, Dare, Holland Bloorview’s accessible fundraiser, Marvin dared himself to run 26 marathons in one year, in what he calls Project 26. With every crossed finished line, he moved one step closer to his goal, raising funds for Holland Bloorview. Now that Project 26 has wrapped, Marvin is sharing insight into his experience and why he dares to show up for kids and youth with disabilities.
How did you get into running?
Marvin: My love for movement goes back to my childhood, playing outside in Manila. But I really started running in April 2020, right at the beginning of the pandemic. Project 26 was my way of welcoming the upcoming year and setting my own personal challenge, which was to run 26 marathons in one year.
How did you decide to fundraise for Holland Bloorview with Project 26?
Marvin: Holland Bloorview is a truly special place. The smiles I see from the kids, families and staff reminds me of the incredible impact this hospital has. Through Project 26, I hope more people feel motivated to give back to the community, whether through donations, volunteering, or other acts of service. I hope to inspire people to set their own “dares” and support organizations like Holland Bloorview.
Do you have any fun running stats to share from Project 26?
Marvin: Once I ran three marathons (127 km) in 48 hours. To this day, I still question how I managed to do that!
How did you stay motivated to keep running, even when it was hard?
Marvin: Each marathon distance carried its own kind of struggle or moments when I doubted myself. But every time, I leaned into my purpose, reminded myself why I started and found the strength to finish the distance. What made this journey truly special was sharing many miles with an incredible running community of people pushing limits, chasing goals and supporting causes they believe in.
What has been your favourite part of this experience?
Marvin: From the Houston Marathon in January 2025, to the Toronto Waterfront Marathon in October 2025, to a 120-day run streak that included running a half marathon (21.1 km) for seven days in a row, these experiences will stay with me forever. But my most memorable moment was the 1 km celebratory run at Holland Bloorview, running alongside my friends, being cheered on by the kids and staff. It was such an emotional experience, and my reminder of why every step mattered.
How does it feel to finally have “crossed the finish line” on 26 marathons?
Marvin: It feels truly incredible! I never imagined I could achieve something like this, and I’m deeply grateful to so many people who joined me in supporting Holland Bloorview. Crossing the finish line isn’t the end, it’s the start of something new, a reminder that every step forward opens the door to new possibilities. I’m excited for what 2026 has in store.
