Running a marathon is a massive achievement, but imagine doing it seven times in seven days across seven continents. That’s exactly what two UAE-based friends, James Elliot-Square and Paris Norriss, accomplished. They didn’t just complete the World Marathon Challenge, they smashed it in five days and 19 hours! As if that wasn’t jaw-dropping enough, James tackled most of the challenge on crutches after suffering a serious tendon injury. While most people would have tapped out, he powered through five marathons with one functioning leg, proving that determination can outpace any setback.
UAE Duo Conquers the World Marathon Challenge In Record Time
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The duo kicked off their adventure at the Ultima Base Camp in Antarctica, braving -15°C temperatures. Freezing winds and icy terrain couldn’t slow them down. But there was no time to celebrate the first finish line, they jumped straight onto a Russian Ilyushin 76 cargo plane and jetted to Cape Town for marathon number two.
With barely three hours between landing and running again, their endurance was tested not just physically but mentally. From Cape Town, they raced through Perth, Dubai, Madrid, Fortaleza in Brazil, and finally, Miami. The journey was a brutal mix of jet lag, exhaustion, and extreme weather shifts. While Antarctica had them freezing, Brazil turned up the heat to 35°C with 80% humidity. Talk about climate shock!
Seven Continents, One Relentless Challenge
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Midway through the challenge, James developed tendinitis in his hip, pelvis, and ankle. Most people would have bowed out, but James did the impossible, he ran five full marathons using crutches. His resilience paid off when he set a world record, finishing a crutch-assisted marathon in 5 hours, 39 minutes, and 5 seconds. Paris, his running partner, was there every step of the way, proving that true friendship can endure even the toughest miles.
The Final Sprint And A Bigger Purpose
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After six gruelling races, they finally reached Miami for their seventh and last marathon. Crossing the finish line wasn’t just a personal victory, it was a monumental feat of endurance. In less than a week, they had covered 296km and travelled a staggering 48,000km across the globe. The cherry on top? They burned around 42,000 calories and raised a whopping $52,000 for the Sovereign Art Foundation, a charity supporting underprivileged children through art.
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The Ultimate Marathon Masters
Running seven marathons in seven days across seven continents is the stuff of legends. Doing it while injured? That’s pure superhuman grit. James and Paris proved that limits exist only to be shattered. Their journey was more than just a race—it was a testament to the power of perseverance, friendship, and a little bit of madness.
Now, the big question remains: what’s next for these record-breaking runners? Whatever it is, the world better be ready!
Cover Image Courtesy: Paris Norris/Instagram
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First Published: February 15, 2025 1:24 PM