Running 55 Marathons: one man’s Epic Journey to Fight Cystic Fibrosis
François Blériot, an artist and ultra-marathon runner, is preparing for an exceptional challenge: running 2,300 kilometers (1,429 miles) across France in 60 days. Starting April 25,2026,Blériot’s journey will span 42 kilometers (26.1 miles) daily, equivalent to running 55 marathons. His motivation? raising awareness and funds for Vaincre la Mucoviscidose, a French association dedicated to fighting cystic fibrosis.
Blériot’s personal connection to cystic fibrosis fuels his determination. “mon neveu est atteint de la mucoviscidose et a subi une greffe poumons, cœur. Il est âgé de 32 ans.C’est pour lui et toutes les autres personnes atteintes que je cours. Je bouclerai le trajet précédent en courant de Gourdon à Abbeville en passant par les Pyrénées puis je remonterai toute la côte ouest,” he explains. (“My nephew suffers from cystic fibrosis and has undergone lung and heart transplants. he’s 32 years old. I’m running for him and all the others affected. I’ll retrace my previous route,running from Gourdon to Abbeville,passing through the Pyrenees,than heading back up the west coast.”)
this isn’t Blériot’s first ultra-marathon for a cause. In 2019, he ran 835 kilometers (520 miles) across France in 16 days, raising funds for the same organization.
Blériot’s upcoming journey will be physically demanding, requiring meticulous planning and support. He’s seeking a vehicle similar to a Ford Transit Connect to transport himself and his crew, Michel and Vincent, who will provide crucial moral and logistical support.
“Pour le soutien sportif et moral, Je serai accompagné par Michel sur les premières étapes et Vincent sur la totalité du parcours,” Blériot states. (“For sports and moral support, Michel will accompany me on the initial stages, and Vincent for the entire journey.”)
Fueling his runs will be a simple yet effective strategy: bananas, oranges, and dried fruits. blériot hopes to secure lodging and dinner arrangements with local municipalities, volunteers, and running/cycling clubs along his route.
Blériot envisions a warm welcome in each town, with designated donation boxes, organized events featuring local representatives and volunteers, and media coverage.
Recognizing the importance of recovery, Blériot seeks a massage therapist to provide treatments every two stages, ensuring he’s physically prepared for the challenges ahead.
His fundraising goal is ambitious: €50,000, raised through donations and sponsorships.
Blériot’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, compassion, and community. His story resonates deeply with Americans, reminding us of the importance of supporting individuals battling chronic illnesses.
Here’s how you can connect with Blériot’s journey:
Follow his progress: Visit his Facebook page: Vaincre la Mucoviscidose website: