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Retired banker reaches halfway mark in marathon challenge

Steve James completes 100 marathons in 100 days while running the coast of Great Britain.

July 24, 2025 at 08:24 AM

‘Horrendous blisters’: Retired UK banker, 65, attempts to run 200 marathons in 200 days

Steve James battles physical challenges while raising funds for charity.

Retired banker completes half of 200 marathons challenge

Steve James, a 65-year-old retired banker from Devon, has completed the halfway mark of his ambitious goal of running 200 marathons in 200 days. As of Thursday, he has logged an average of 100 marathons in 100 days, despite encountering serious physical obstacles, including painful blisters and a flare-up of gout that required hospitalization. He began his journey in April from Topsham, Devon, and has since traveled up to Scotland's coastlines, adapting his route as needed. Remarkably, his health is being monitored by researchers at the University of Exeter, who are studying the impacts of such extreme endurance on older individuals.

Key Takeaways

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Steve James has completed halfway of his 200 marathons in 200 days challenge.

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He faced physical struggles, including blisters and gout, but continues to push through.

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The University of Exeter researchers are monitoring his physical health throughout the challenge.

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James is raising funds for Cancer Research UK and the Scouts, blending charity with athleticism.

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He maintains a less strict diet compared to elite athletes, focusing instead on routine and enjoyment.

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His story may inspire older adults to engage in ambitious physical goals.

"What have I done? My feet felt like they had been put in a vice."

James reflects on the physical toll of the early days of his challenge.

"It's all about routine. I love the physical challenge."

James explains the mental and physical preparation behind his journey.

"We're unsure if Steve's weight loss is from fat or muscle mass."

A researcher discusses the insights gained from monitoring James's health.

"I can keep going, I’m not especially talented at anything else."

James shares his determination and self-awareness regarding his endurance.

Steve James's journey is not just a remarkable athletic feat but also a window into the resilience of the human spirit. His commitment to pushing physical limits while raising funds for Cancer Research UK and the Scouts highlights a growing trend of older individuals engaging in extreme athletic challenges. As researchers track his progress, the findings could influence our understanding of aging and physical performance. This could potentially inspire more older adults to pursue their own health challenges, promoting a culture of fitness and perseverance.

Highlights

Running 200 marathons isn't just a challenge, it's a journey of resilience.
Every painful step is a step closer to raising funds for a good cause.
When I run, I forget about the pain and focus on the routine.
This is about stretching my limits, not about being the fastest.

Potential health risks for older athletes

Steve James's extreme running challenge raises concerns about the health impacts on older individuals. While initial health responses have been monitored, long-term effects remain uncertain. Experts caution about the strain such physical demands may pose, especially concerning muscle loss or injury.

James's journey is a testament to resilience and adaptability as he continues his remarkable challenge.

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charity endurance research health marathons health sports charity

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