Alberta Runners Will Attempt Historic Challenge to Support Kids & Youth

Calgary, AB – This May, lifelong athletes Mike Hanson and Dave Morin will take on a transformative feat of endurance – running 10 marathons in 10 days in 10 provinces – to raise $1 million for Big Brothers Big Sisters, KidSport, and the Autism Aspergers Friendship Society.

The 10in10in10 marathon challenge takes place May 16-25, 2025. Beginning in St. John’s Nfld., Hanson and Morin will each run more than 420 kilometres over 10 days, taking their final steps at the Servus Calgary Marathon.

“We can’t wait to hit the ground running!” said Mike Hanson. “This marathon challenge has been years in the making and required months of gruelling training. We’ve endured 3 a.m. wake-up calls, – 40 °C temperatures, and endless treadmill sessions. Every sacrifice has been worth it for a mission that is deeply personal to both of us.”

The 10in10in10 marathon challenge was inspired by a goal to break down barriers to sports and recreation, and provide support for every child, regardless of their background or abilities.

A father of twin 14-year-old boys with autism, Hanson has witnessed first-hand the transformative impact of social and recreational respite care – support he is determined to bring to other Canadian families, especially those who cannot afford it.

As a volunteer for Big Brothers Big Sisters for eight years, Dave Morin has also seen how providing a steady, positive influence can create a lasting, positive impact.

“It really is as simple as just showing up for a child when they are facing a tough season of life,” Morin said. “Our youth need more mentors and more programming to guide them. That mission is all the motivation I need.”

Apart from the Servus Calgary Marathon, the 10in10in10 marathon challenge will include independent marathon events. Hanson and Morin will rely on a small support crew, which will manage their nutrition and travel (mostly via RV), and ensure they are on schedule. A detailed map of each race route will be shared in advance of the challenge at 10in10in10.ca .

“Our marathon series is simple and flexible by design so that we can accommodate inclement weather, travel delays and any other potential detours,” said Morin.

Travel, accommodation and all other related costs will be covered entirely by the runners and sponsors, meaning every dollar raised will go directly to the charities. Canadians wishing to support the effort can log on to 10in10in10.ca where they can direct their donation to the three charities as they see fit.

“We are so grateful for the support of Canadians and to our generous sponsors. We can assure them we are all in on this challenge,” said Hanson. “My own family will match donations up to $150,000.”

Media can follow along Hanson and Morin’s training and the 10in10in10 marathon challenge, by visiting the 10in10in10 accounts on Instagram and Strava.