UAE 'marathona' set for 777 challenge: 7 marathons, 7 continents, 7 days

UAE resident Maria Conceicao isn’t one to rest on her laurels. The first Portuguese woman and third national to summit Mount Everest, Maria pushes her own physical limits through various endurance challenges to raise funds to eradicate poverty in Dhaka, Bangladesh.

She was recently honoured with two Guinness World Record titles during this year’s 777 ultra-marathon challenge – for “fastest aggregate” and “fastest woman runner”.

Now, she’s all pumped up to hit the track again for yet another endurance challenge.

This time she’s attempting a tougher trail (7 marathons of 42km each in over 7 continents in 7 straight days), she also hopes to raise $1million towards her charity Maria Cristina Foundation.

Her foundation has been working towards providing education to underprivileged children in Dhaka (Bangladesh) since 2005. Education, they believe, will open new opportunities and end economic instability.

“We are continuing our fight against extreme poverty and will run the toughest race yet to educate the underprivileged children of Dhaka,” said Maria.

“We are extremely happy that, with the generous support of our donors, we have helped hundreds of destitute families and children. There are still a lot more out there who have great potential and are worthy of being given the chance to go to school.

Maria will embark on the challenge in February 2015.

The 777 Challenge will kick-start in Australia, followed by Asia, Europe, Africa, North America, South America, and finally, Antarctica.

“We have a radical approach to address the problem of poverty-stricken children.

"Our goal is to create sustainable change through education. That is why we can guarantee our donors that every cent they donate has a long-term impact. We do not have overheads, so every penny received goes to the intended beneficiaries,” Maria clarified.

Aside from corporate donors, Maria is also calling on more volunteers to take on the endurance challenge.

The marathon is attracting runners from across the world, with 13 different nationalities confirming their part. Interestingly, the oldest competitor in the list is 77 years old.

“We are seeking volunteers to join our team for the challenge either for the individual races or the whole 7 continents. We would need them to raise the funds themselves to cover the expenses and also help us raise a minimum of $1,000 per race, which is the lowest amount needed to fully educate one child for one year,” Maria said.

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