Marathon Quest

by Martin Parnell

In 2005, during a four-month cycling trip through Africa, Martin Parnell was struck by the power of sport and its ability to bring people together and to bring about change. Five years later, the 55-year-old mining engineer, husband, father and grandfather dedicated a year of his life to run 250 marathons with the aim of raising $250,000 for the charity Right To Play, an international humanitarian organization that reaches out to disadvantaged children around the world. In the end, Martins Marathon Quest 250 raised $320,000 for the charity, and he personally visited 60 schools, inspiring thousands of children to get active in order to help the less fortunate at home and abroad. Along with information on technique, gear, nutrition and the challenges facing new and seasoned athletes as they prepare for either regular or ultra-marathons, Martin gives honest and often humorous insight into why an ordinary person would attempt to do something extraordinary, pushing themselves to the limit, both mentally and physically, in pursuit of their goal to make the world a better place. Marathon Quest is an inspiring and engaging read for anyone interested in running, travel or philanthropy.

Genres: Nonfiction

208 pages, Paperback

First published September 30, 2012

About the author

In 2010, following a 25-year mining career, Martin Parnell started his "Quests for Kids" initiative. Over the next five years he completed 10 "Quests". These included running 250 marathons in one year, setting five Guinness World Records in endurance events and summiting Mount Kilimanjaro in 21 hours. At the end of 2014, he had raised over $1.3m for the humanitarian organization Right To Play and 27,000 children had been given the gift of hope.

Martin's first book "MARATHON QUEST" was published by Rocky Mountain Books and CBC Radio listed him as one of Alberta's top five authors, for 2014. His second book, “RUNNING TO THE EDGE”, was released in November 2016. The final book of The Marathon Trilogy, “THE SECRET MARATHON-Empowering women and girls in Afghanistan through sport” will be published on October 30th 2018.

Through keynotes and workshops, Martin shares his message of having a “Finish the Race Attitude – Setting goals and overcoming obstacles to unlock your potential”.

He is married to Sue, and has three children and three grandchildren.

Reviews

[Gossymotto · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was given a signed copy of this book, as a gift from my sister-in-law, a friend and fellow Iron-man participant of Martin Parnell. I remember when my brother and sister-in-law first told me of this friend of their's running these 250 marathons in one year. I thought he must be some kind of nut, and I still don't doubt that, but he succeeded in reaching his goal, both in completing all 250 Marathons as well as raising more than the $250k he had set out to do.

Congratulations Martin, I found your book very interesting and enjoyable to read. It has inspired me, not to go out and run around the globe, but to look at what I can do as an individual to make a difference and help someone in need.

Nicely done.

[Brittney · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars. What a crazy and inspiring man

[Tina Dietz · Rating 4 out of 5]

I produced the audiobook version of Martin's work and in the process I fell in love with his story. Simply put, Martin makes me want to be a better person. I probably won't run marathons to raise money for children's charity all around the world like he did, but I will definitely spread the word about his story. Full Disclosure Statement: I was not paid for this review and do not receive royalties.

[Robyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had the pleasure of meeting Parnell in Calgary on marathon weekend. I admire his drive and commitment to his Quests. Great story about how he got started and how he was able to keep going. Incredibly inspiring.

[Lysle Barmby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another Albertan hero!

[Jeff · Rating 4 out of 5]

A story of an epic adventure of running philanthropy. Having had the privilege of running with Martin, I could easily fall in step with him through the pages.