Marathon Man: 30 Marathons in 30 Days for Mental Health
In April 2026, Crewsaders Senior Crew Chief David Walmsley will take on a challenge few would dare to imagine, running 30 full marathons in 30 consecutive days, covering more than 780 miles with no rest days. This extraordinary physical and emotional journey is far more than an endurance test, it is a powerful statement, a conversation starter, and a call to action for mental health.
Through every mile, David aims to break the silence that still surrounds mental wellbeing, shine a light on the pressures faced by individuals and communities across the UK, and raise vital funds for those who may be struggling quietly, particularly within the events industry, where he sees these challenges firsthand.
Running for a Cause
David is running to raise vital funds for Back Up Tech, the event industry's mental health charity, alongside national organisations Mind and Scottish Action for Mental Health (SAMH). His campaign supports frontline mental health services, ensuring individuals across the UK have access to care, guidance, and reassurance, sometimes at the moment they need it most.
Mental health challenges affect every community, workplace, and individual, and within the events industry, long un-sociable hours, physical demands, and time away from home can put real pressure on wellbeing. Every mile David runs represents someone who may be struggling in silence. By pushing his body to its limits, he hopes to spark open, honest conversations about mental wellbeing and shine a light on the growing pressures faced across the UK, reminding everyone that support is available.
Why Crewsaders is Sponsoring Marathon Man
At Crewsaders, sponsoring David and supporting Marathon Man is about far more than a challenge, it's a reflection of who we are and what we stand for. Mental health and wellbeing are central to everything we do, shaping our culture, decisions, and the way we support our people every day.
Across our sites, trained Mental Health First Aiders are empowered to spot early signs of stress, fatigue, and other mental health concerns, providing visible, accessible support that helps create a safe, sustainable working environment where everyone feels valued and able to perform at their best.
Supporting Marathon Man is a powerful extension of this commitment, turning empathy into action by funding vital services, encouraging open conversations, and reinforcing a message that matters deeply to us: no one has to face these challenges alone. At Crewsaders, mental health is not just a conversation, it's a responsibility, and together, we can make a meaningful difference on site, in our communities, and beyond.
The Route
David will run over 780 miles from the Isle of Skye to London in just 30 days. Each marathon he completes embodies persistence, resilience, and hope. As he passes through towns and cities across the UK, his journey serves as a powerful reminder that mental health conversations must keep moving, openly, honestly, and without judgement.
In David's Words
"Mental health affects every community in the UK. I see it in the events industry in which I work every day. This challenge is about showing solidarity, starting conversations, and raising funds that can make a real difference. Every mile is for someone who may be struggling silently. Please help raise funds to help."
David Walmsley, Senior Crew Chief
How You Can Support
There are several ways you can get behind David and this incredible cause:
- Donate via the donations page: gvwhl.com/NHYPE
- Share the challenge with your network
- Follow the journey and cheer David on as he passes through communities across the UK
About the Charities
Back Up Tech
An event industry charity dedicated to supporting the mental health and wellbeing of technical crew and production professionals.Mind
The leading mental health charity in England and Wales, providing advice and support to anyone experiencing a mental health problem.SAMH (Scottish Action for Mental Health)
Scotland's national mental health charity, dedicated to mental health and wellbeing for all.DONATE NOW
Every donation makes a difference. Every share spreads awareness. Every mile matters.
