A man who is attempting to run a marathon in every English city over the course of a year was inspired to raise money for a cancer charity after his mother endured her own cancer journey.
Adam Rodriguez, 29, from Taunton, began his epic 55 marathon challenge last July in Hereford.
“A few years ago my mother bravely battled large B-cell lymphoma in 3 places and while she survived, the journey tested every part of our family. A reminder of the quiet, relentless strength it takes to face cancer, not just for those diagnosed but for everyone who loves them. I’m passionate about trying to raise money for MOVE Against Cancer because they bring hope, movement and community to people navigating the weight of cancer, reminding us that no one goes through it alone. I’m doing this challenge to see every corner of England, to test both my body and my mind, and to embrace the adventure that comes with pushing beyond comfort – one marathon, once city, and one story at a time”.
Adam is travelling to 55 cities across England between July 2025 and June 2026. His final marathon will be in Salisbury on Sunday 28 June. He’ll be doing a marathon in Sheffield the day before so will finish with a double marathon weekend! Adam works full-time so he’s running the marathons on a Saturday or Sunday and tracking them using a Strava device. The exception is when he runs in London as he’s delighted to have got a charity place in the actual London Marathon in April!
“I’ve always been active and I’ve always loved running”,
he says.
“In terms of the fitness side of things, I’ve run many marathons and half marathons before. Although it won’t be easy I’m confident I can make it work!”
Throughout the year-long challenge Adam is meeting volunteer ambassadors and participants from MOVE Against Cancer’s 5k Your Way initiative. On the last Saturday of the month, at designated parkruns, anyone impacted by cancer is welcome to join a 5KYW group and walk, jog or run as much or as little of the route as they wish. Some simply come to volunteer and others come for coffee but everyone comes for the support. Since the challenge began a number of ambassadors across England have met up with Adam and some have run part of the way with him.
“This challenge has already taken me to parts of the country I’d never have seen otherwise”,
says Adam.
“The encouragement from MOVE Against Cancer’s ambassadors along the way has been a real lift. It’s an honour to meet participants and ambassadors in different parts of the country. These are the people creating community, encouragement and strength at a local level and I’m excited to hear their stories, share the miles with them and highlight the real impact MOVE Against Cancer is making on the ground”.
The marathons are going well so far but the real challenge, Adam says, is the recovery, especially on the few weekends where he’s got two marathons back to back.
“The funny thing about marathon training is, no matter how hard you go at it, 26.2 miles always finds a way to humble you. I’m having to be super sensible with how I train, fuel and rest, even if my legs would prefer a lie-down and a cuppa. Add in the joy of British weather and the odd city that feels more like a mountain range, and it’s shaping up to be quite the adventure!”
Adam’s mum Sharon is thrilled about her son’s forthcoming marathon adventure
“Adam loves a challenge. I have every faith he will complete this and look forward to watching his journey!”
MOVE Against Cancer’s Fundraising Officer Sophie Mulligan says Adam’s commitment is hugely admirable.
“He’s given up a whole year of weekends to take on this epic challenge and to do it in support of MOVE Against Cancer means so much to us. Any donations to spur Adam on will go directly into supporting and inspiring those affected by cancer to live an active, fulfilling life. We are behind you every step of the way, Adam!”
MOVE Against Cancer charity celebrates its 10th anniversary this year.
