12 Marathons in 12 months – Yimmy’s extraordinary challenge

Sports Tours International Ambassador Yimmy isn’t one to shy away from a challenge. After completing the Six Abbott World Marathon Majors in just 6 months, Yimmy is back with an even bigger goal: running 12 marathons in 12 months. His journey has already taken him across prestigious courses, including the London Marathon, Copenhagen Marathon and the Midnight Sun Marathon in Norway. With races including Berlin, Chicago, Amsterdam, Valencia, Tokyo, Rome, Boston and another go at the London Marathon still to come, Yimmy is determined to keep going. But why is he pushing himself to these limits? Here’s what you need to know.

Turning 50 this year, Yimmy wanted to mark the occasion in a memorable way, but this challenge is about much more than personal goals. He’s raising funds for Young Lives vs Cancer, a charity that he has been supporting for years. Through his marathons, Yimmy is aiming to raise a substantial amount for young people affected by cancer.

For Yimmy, this challenge is also about showing others that anyone can achieve extraordinary things. His Instagram handle, @theshortfatguyrunsthemajors, speaks to that message. He’s proving that with dedication, even the most daunting goals are within reach. “I want to inspire people,” he says, “to show them that no matter where you start, if you have the motivation, you can do it.”

The recent Midnight Sun Marathon, with its tricky terrain caused a foot injury that has made training for the Berlin Marathon difficult. Despite this, Yimmy remains focused on recovery. “I’ve been building up to 20 miles and doing a two-week taper,” he says. His plan includes carb-loading closer to race day, prioritising sleep, and staying hydrated with electrolytes.

Yimmy’s next stop is at the Berlin Marathon, with a course that winds through some of Berlin’s most famous landmarks, including the Brandenburg Gate, Reichstag and Victory Column, the marathon offers a unique combination of culture and competition.

“I’m looking forward to running through such a historic city again, the start and finish are true standout sections, Yimmy says. “You can’t miss the warm-up, there’s clapping, singing and dancing, the build-up is so intense in an unforgettable way.”  Yimmy describes the crowd near 8K at the Reichstag as being really memorable, it may be a quieter marathon compared to London and New York, but the crowd are ready to support you on sections where you really need it.

As runners approach the finish line, the world-famous Brandenburg Gate will begin to appear, accompanied by an atmosphere like no other. Yimmy reminds runners that the Brandeburg Gate isn’t the finish line. “Many runners think this is the finish, but you have about 300 meters left to go…this can feel like the longest distance, but make sure you stay on the right and get an iconic photo under the Brandenburg Gate!”

With the road ahead still full of challenges, Yimmy’s resilience and passion for charity, make his journey even more inspiring. Follow along as Yimmy continues his quest to complete 12 marathons in 12 months – proving that no challenge is too great with the right mindset and support.