10 marathons, 10 provinces, 10 days: 2 Albertans plan ambitious charity run

Mike Hanson and Dave Morin will attempt to run 10 marathons in 10 days across all 10 Canadian provinces to raise $1 million for charity. (Supplied)

Two Alberta runners are hitting the pavement in a big way this spring to support youth in need.

Mike Hanson and Dave Morin will attempt to run 10 marathons in 10 days across all 10 Canadian provinces in May to raise $1 million for charity.

That’s 422 kilometres, beginning in St. John’s and wrapping at the Servus Calgary Marathon.

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“This kind of popped into my head as a way that I could take the passion I have for running and the passion that I have for trying to impact other people – kids especially – and put it together,” Hanson said.

Along the way, the duo will be pulling in cash for KidSport, Big Brothers Big Sisters and the Autism Aspergers Friendship Society.

“This is something that’s a personal challenge for us from a physical standpoint, as well as something that we hope inspires Canadians and gets people to donate and support these organizations,” Morin told CTV News.

Hanson is the father of twin 14-year-old boys with autism.

He says their diagnosis 12 years ago completely changed his perspective on life.

“Everything I had in mind for their future and what was important for my family changed instantly,” he said. “We’ve had the capacity throughout that 12 years to give them everything they need, and I think they’re thriving because of it. But not everyone is that lucky.”

Morin also has a personal connection to the charitable work — specifically one local organization that’ll benefit from the run.

“I started volunteering with (Big Brothers, Big Sisters) in about 2012, and originally thought it was a way to give back,” he said. “But it was amazing just how much of an impact it had on me — being able to forge that connection and have a lasting impact on the littles that I worked with.”

“There’s just an opportunity for undeserved children to have further support and get the opportunities they need in their youth.”

The runners will lean on a small support crew and an RV throughout their travel.

More information on their challenge, route and on how to donate, can be found on 10in10in10.ca.

The challenge takes place May 16 to 25.