Description:  2.5 years ago, I embarked on a quest to run a marathon on all 7 continents (North America, South America, Australia, Asia, Europe, Africa, Antarctica) and compete in all 5 World Marathon Majors (Berlin, Boston, Chicago, London, NYC) before turning 40 this coming October. I've now completed 6 continents and 3 ... Read More 2.5 years ago, I embarked on a quest to run a marathon on all 7 continents (North America, South America, Australia, Asia, Europe, Africa, Antarctica) and compete in all 5 World Marathon Majors (Berlin, Boston, Chicago, London, NYC) before turning 40 this coming October. I've now completed 6 continents and 3 majors (see photos on the right for proof!): 2008 ING NYC Marathon (1st Continent and 1st Major) 2009 Maraton de Santiago (2nd Continent) 2009 Blackmores Sydney Marathon (3rd Continent) 2009 BofA Chicago Marathon (2nd Major) 2010 Toyko Marathon (4th Continent) 2010 Virgin London Marathon (5th Continent and 3rd Major). 2010 Grand Marathon International de Casablanca (6th Continent) I am now gearing up for my 7th and final continent (Antarctica on Feb, 28th), and next to last major (Boston on April 18th) before wrapping up in Berlin in September. As in years past when I raised money for local charities (Team Continuum in NYC, Childline in London), I will be running the Boston Marathon on behalf of Jumpstart, a local Boston-based charity. Jumpstart addresses the education achievement gap poverty creates, delivering an early education intervention program to economically disadvantaged preschool children, that emphasizes language and literacy skills, as well as social and initiative skills. These foundational skills are essential to ensure children are prepared for kindergarten and have the opportunity for continued success in school and life. I have always felt a responsibility to support kids' causes because I have been so fortunate to have a healthy and happy childhood, with all the support from my parents one could wish for...while many other kids do not. Jumpstart has received a 4-star rating, the highest charity rating on CharityNavigator.org. Many of you have been incredibly generous in the past and your support has been so appreciated…please do not feel any obligation to repeat! But for all potential supporters of my running and the Jumpstart cause, as with last year’s runs in Tokyo and London, I am once again offering a “2-for-1” Marathon deal...not only will I run the oldest marathon in the world in Boston but I'll also run the “last marathon” in Antarctica for you! Given what I’ve seen of both courses…I will need the extra motivation! If you are interested in supporting me, I'd be most honored…and you’d get 2 marathons for the price of 1...including my 7th continent! Thank you! Martin Close