12 marathons 12 counties and 12 days

After doing the equivalent of ten marathons in ten days for charity last year, Tullamore resident Denzil Jacobs has upped the ante this year with plans for twelve marathons over twelve days - starting tomorrow - in every county in Leinster.

The South African native is planning on raising at least €25,000 for Saplings Special School and Irish Autism Action from his efforts this year, and is also inviting people all over Leinster to join him in some or all of his routes as he travels throughout the province.

Admitting this year’s challenge will be an “extra strain”, Denzil said inspiration will get him through. The father of four will begin his tough task with a marathon in Bagenalstowm in Carlow. 

He will finish on day twelve with a marathon in Tullamore, but not before fitting in 26.2 mile distances in Kilkenny, Wexford, Wicklow, Westmeath, Longford, Kildare, Louth, Meath, Dublin and Laois first.

If anyone is likely to succeed at the challenge, Denzil is. The occupational therapist recently completed back-to-back ultra marathons in Cork, but for the past few weeks has wound down his training so he can begin his challenge on August 19 with fresh legs.

Speaking to the Offaly Independent, Denzil explained that he has to do his bit and complete the miles for the families involved with Saplings Special School and Irish Autism Action, but members of the public also have a job.

“The only way it’s going to be a success in changing the lives of those families is if everyone gets involved and helps us hit the €25,000 target,” he explained. “That’s exceptionally important.”

All funds donated will go straight to the cause, as all costs associated with the effort are being covered by donors. “I don’t want to see a cent of the public’s money wasted,” Denzil explained.

Details of how to donate and each of Denzil’s twelve marathons are available at the dedicated website www.denzils12in12.ie.

Denzil is encouraging as many people as possible to join him at some point of the journey, both to encourage him in his mission and to support the cause. 

“It’s for everybody,” he explained. “Come run, walk, jog or even crawl if you must - you will be recognised.”