Maria Conceicao, a Dubai expat, has completed a staggering seven ultramarathons, on seven continents, in as many weeks.
Founder of the Maria Cristina Foundation, Maria was running the 777 Challenge to secure financial, employment and educational support for the impoverished children and families of Bangladesh.
The completion of the gruelling endurance task, which saw Maria run a 50km ultramarathon every weekend for seven weeks on each continent, sees a significant step towards accomplishing the transformational work she initiated 10 years ago with the children of Dhaka.
Maria admitted that it was the thought of those children and families in Bangladesh that spurred her on when times were tough.
“With over six months of preparation both physically and mentally, this challenge took a lot out of me especially during the ultramarathons as I had several injuries accompanied by severe pain and fatigue,” Maria said.
“If I was doing this for myself I am certain I would have quit at several points – but, I am not doing this for myself, I’m doing it for a cause and that is the only thing that kept me going.
“However, despite the constant challenges and trials, me alone completing this challenge will not make the effort worthwhile.
“It is only when people come forward and help the foundation; the whole endeavour will be successful and a notable difference will be made.”
Maria’s incredible 777 Challenge began in Antarctica in January, before she moved on to South America, Asia, Europe, Australia, North America, culminating with a remarkable finish in Africa this March, which saw her come first in her age category of 35 to 39.
Each ultramartathon was accompanied by a challenge.
In Antarctica, Maria ran a hilly course that had a combination of snow, ice, gravel and mud, while the South American ultramarathon in Chile was accompanied by strong winds.
For the Asian leg, Maria completed a tough course in Wadi Bih, and in Oman she ran up an elevation of 3,650ft.
While in the United Kingdom, she ran during the worst floods in Southern Europe and was one of only 23 runners out of 65 participants to complete the night ultramarathon in the most unforgiving weather conditions.
Following the completion of the Challenge, Maria is hopeful that her performance can make a difference to those who need it most.
“I hope my effort will show people how serious I am, and what lengths I will go to, to help the impoverished,” she said.
“I have now completed several extreme challenges and have many more planned.”
Maria's 777 Challenge results
1. 26th January – Antarctica: 3rd overall in the male and female category
2. 30th January – Chile: 1st in the female category, and 3rd overall in the male category
3. 7th February – Oman: 8th overall
4. 15th February – UK: 65 participants, only 23 continued, Maria completed the race
5. 23rd February – Melbourne: Maria was severely injured, last to cross the finish line
6. 2nd March – New York: Injured again, 54th place of 69 participants
7. 8th March – South Africa: 1st in her age category (35 – 39)
