Meet Martin Parnell.  In one calendar year, he will run 250 marathons.  Why?  Well, read on ..

In 2005, during a gruelling, four-month cycling expedition from Egypt to South Africa, Martin Parnell met many children along the way - playing soccer with some and playing table tennis with others.  His many encounters with these children opened his eyes to how sport can be a wonderful form of communication that everyone transcends all language barriers.  Fast forward to 2009 and Martin is introduced to Right To Play, a charity that teaches children self esteem, independence, teamwork, and many other skills through the process of play.  The fit was perfect and Team KIDS-U-CAN was formed, where members promote awareness and raise funds for Right To Play through participation in sporting events.

Inspired by Dean Karnazes "50/50" book of how Dean ran 50 marathons, in 50 days across 50 US states and meeting Larry Macon, the 64 year old lawyer who holds the Guinness World Record for running the most marathons in one calendar year, Martin came up with the idea to run 250 marathons in one calendar year - "Marathon Quest 250" was born.

The BMO Vancouver Marathon is Marathon #87 for Martin and we are proud to welcome him and be a part of this worthy cause. 

Good luck Martin and we look forward to seeing you on May 2, 2010!

For more information on Martin's Quest, visit his website at http://www.marathonquest250.com.