Dear friends,

Many of you know that running has been a constant presence in my life. I run every day — no matter what. It is my way of staying grounded, of finding joy, and of sharing a very simple belief that has guided me for years: enjoy life and be happy. Through running, I’ve always tried to bring as many people as possible along with me, because the endorphin rush, the sense of achievement, and the quiet strength it builds can be life-changing in the simplest and most honest way.

Over the past 50 years, running has taken me around the world — from Dublin to New York, from Tokyo to Antarctica — across countries and continents, always self-funded and driven purely by passion. In August 2026, I will take on the Sydney Marathon, which will mark a very special milestone for me: my 90th marathon.

As many runners know, some major marathons require participants to run in support of a charity. When looking for the right cause to mark this moment, I wanted the focus to be meaningful, local, and impactful. After careful thought, I chose to dedicate this marathon to Cleona’s Foundation, a small Irish charity based in Limerick.

The reason is simple. Cleona’s Foundation supports families at one of the most difficult and heartbreaking times of their lives. It offers help when it is most needed — quietly, compassionately, and without fanfare. Being a small Irish foundation, every contribution truly matters and makes a direct difference to real families facing unimaginable challenges.

This fundraising effort is entirely about supporting the Foundation. All costs related to my participation, including travel and accommodation, are fully covered by myself. Every euro raised will go directly to Cleona’s Foundation and the families it supports.

I am reaching out to ask you, if you feel able, to support this cause — whether through a donation, by sharing the message, or simply by keeping the Foundation in mind. Helping even one family feel supported during their darkest moment is, to me, the greatest finish line of all.

Thank you for taking the time to read this, and for any support you may be able to offer.

With gratitude,

Marco Panfili

Cliona’s Foundation believes no family should suffer financially when caring for a seriously ill child

Cliona’s provides nationwide direct financial assistance to families to help with the multiple non-medical costs of caring for their seriously sick child.

These costs include but are not limited to accommodation, food, transport,having to take time out of work, pay childminders to look after their other children and specialized equipment. 1 parent normally gives up work so income is down but expenditure has increased significantly.