01-07-2025
Gary McKee to embark on latest challenge for Hospice at Home West Cumbria
Veteran fundraiser Gary McKee, who raised more than £1 million for charity by running 365 marathons in 365 days, is to embark on his latest challenge.
McKee will now run 100 marathons in 100 days in 2026, culminating in the London Marathon with his son, Beau, aiming to raise £100,000 for Hospice at Home West Cumbria.
McKee raised a combined total of more than £1.1 million for both Hospice at Home West Cumbria and Macmillan by running a marathon every day of 2023.
Over the last five years, he has raised nearly £900,000 for Hospice at Home West Cumbria alone.
'Reaching that £1 million target for Hospice at Home West Cumbria has been in my sights for a long time, and with just £100,000 to go, the 100toLDN challenge is my way of giving it one last big push," said McKee.
'It's also special that Beau will be running the London Marathon with me at the end – he's been there throughout the journey, so it'll be a proud moment to cross the line together.'
From 17 January to 26 April, he will run a marathon every day in his hometown of Cleator Moor. He will also travel around West Cumbria, running with schools and local community groups.
'This challenge is also a great chance to get back into the community – visiting schools, running with local groups, and encouraging people to get outdoors and stay active. That's always been a big part of what it's all about for me," continued McKee.
'Hospice at Home West Cumbria does incredible work supporting local families when they need it most. Every pound raised makes a difference, and I'm committed to doing whatever I can to help them keep going.'
Hayley McKay, Director of Funding & Communication at Hospice at Home West Cumbria, said: 'When Gary contacted me to share his thoughts about a new challenge, I was initially lost for words.
"He already does so much for us. I was taken aback that he still wants to do more, still wants to keep going, and still wants to raise more funds.
'It's going to be another tough challenge, but I do not doubt that Gary will achieve everything he sets out to do.'
In 2023, the hospice appointed Gary as its Vice President in honour of his fundraising.
Hayley added: 'As a small local charity, we cannot express how grateful we are to Gary for his continued support.
"Every year, we care for hundreds of people across our region, providing them with wraparound support as theyface the toughest of times. This work, spanning the last four decades, has been made possible thanks to oursupporters and the incredible community.
'Hospice at Home West Cumbria can't wait to join Gary in his next chapter and celebrate with him his success.100toLDN here we go.'
