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The Story Behind the Flexible Marathon Challenge

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Two women smiling and holding a yellow sign that reads "D4N" with the name Hill Robinson, standing outdoors near a marina with boats and buildings in the background, wearing athletic clothing and baseball caps that say "feel good."
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Hey, I’m Mel

When I was experiencing depression working as a chef at sea, I had no idea where to turn. The resources existed, I just couldn't find them. That gap is what Marathon for Mental Health (M4) was built to close.

M4 is a flexible marathon challenge for anyone who finds traditional marathon training inaccessible, whether that's because of long working hours, isolation, an unpredictable schedule, or a working environment that makes self-care hard to prioritise. Run, walk or hike your 26.2 miles across the whole of October 2026, in any combination that works for you.

We started in the maritime industry, but this challenge has grown to include shift workers, remote workers, and communities all over the world. Because poor mental health doesn't belong to one industry. And neither does the solution

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I wanted to find a way to offer a fully flexible marathon challenge for people to run, walk or hike wherever they are in the world — with no pressure to complete it in a single day, or even a single week.

The M4 flexible marathon challenge 2026 gives you the whole of October to complete your 26.2 miles, however and wherever works for you.

Alongside the main challenge, we run a global community 5k programme — relaxed, welcoming runs, walks and hikes worldwide. They're there to combat loneliness if it's biting, and to give participants the chance to meet each other in person if the timing works out.

A key part of this flexible marathon challenge has always been about getting people to the right tools and resources before they find themselves in crisis. Not after.

That's why the marathon funds the development of our How To Guide — a practical mental health resource built specifically for people working in high-pressure environments, mailed out as part of the entry pack.

We also use the marathon as a fundraising drive, connecting participants with charities that can offer real support when they or someone in their network needs it most.

In year one, 260 people across four continents completed the challenge and together we raised £16,700 for charity. We held 13 community activities and had 20 industry stakeholders step up for crew welfare.

Year two of the flexible marathon challenge 2026 is shaping up to be bigger, louder, and further-reaching. Thank you to everyone who took part in year one, and to the industry partners who backed this from the start.

As Director I can only make so much impact on my own. But together, we can make a huge difference.

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Mel x

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Our Vision

Marathon for Mental Health was created to make movement, community, and mental health resources accessible to people in hard-to-reach places.

To create a world where people feel supported, connected and empowered to prioritise their mental health, no matter where or how busy they are.

We envision a global community that openly discusses mental wellbeing, that moves to feel-good, and ensures everyone has access to the resources, understanding, and solidarity they need to thrive.

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TAKE PART IN 2026
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How Marathon For Mental Health came together...

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Our Impact

October 2025 was the very first Marathon 4 Mental Health, we went from a concept in 2024 to a 260 people strong community, spread across four continents!

260

participants

£16,700

raised for charity

13

community activities held

20

industry stakeholders stepped up for crew welfare

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JOIN THE MOVEMENT

❝ Marathon For Mental Health aligns perfectly with MHG’s mission to give back to those who spend their lives at sea.

The event was well-publicised and well-run throughout and should absolutely be repeated. One thing I didn't anticipate was the marvellous sense of warmth and community that sprang up around the events and participants.

As well as achieving a terrific fundraising total for ISWAN, many of the participants enjoyed a boost to their mental wellbeing just from taking part.

All credit is due to Melanie's thoughtful planning, clarity of vision and drive for making everything happen. ❞

Joanna Drysdale

Director, MHG Insurance

Our Supporters

Medal Sponsor

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MHG Insurance has been supporting yacht crew since 1997 with insurance plans that truly put wellbeing first.

Life at sea can be unpredictable, so MHG offers tailored coverage that includes global medical care, mental health support, and emergency assistance—designed specifically for the realities of life onboard.

With decades of experience and trusted insurer partnerships, MHG helps crew feel secure and supported wherever they are in the world.

Their focus isn’t just on protection…it’s on promoting healthier, happier lives at sea.

How To For Crew Guide Sponsor

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At Burgess, crew welfare is at the centre of our management approach. We’re committed to fostering a supportive, inclusive on board culture through continuous education, open communication, and access to resources that promote mental health, diversity, and overall well‑being. Our goal is simple: to ensure every crew member feels valued, heard, and empowered to thrive.

That’s why we’re proud to collaborate with Marathon 4 Mental Health on the 2026 edition of their ‘How To for Yacht Crew guide’. This trusted resource provides practical, sympathetic guidance to help crew navigate the unique challenges of life at sea and aligns closely with our ongoing commitment to building healthy, resilient, and well-informed onboard communities.

We’re excited to support this fantastic initiative and continue driving positive change together across the yachting industry.

Official Community
5k Partners

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Hill Robinson is a global yacht management company specialising in comprehensive crew services, including recruitment, employment, payroll, and training.

Recognising the vital role of crew wellbeing, they have partnered with the International Seafarers’ Welfare and Assistance Network (ISWAN) to provide 24/7 helpline support and mental health resources. Collaborating with Seas the Mind, they offer mental health awareness training and onboard welfare packs.

Their Hill Robinson Academy delivers tailored professional development through blended learning methods, encompassing in-person and online courses.

By integrating these initiatives, Hill Robinson ensures crew members are supported, valued, and equipped for long-term success in the superyacht industry.

Seas The Mind

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Seas The Mind is a UK-based company founded in 2020 by experienced seafarers Emma Ross and Mel White, focused on boosting mental health awareness and resilience among yacht crews and seafarers.

Life at sea can be tough - long hours, isolation and limited support. That’s why, Seas The Mind offers practical, maritime-specific mental health training, delivered by those who’ve lived experience having worked onboard themselves.

With 2,000 seafarers trained so far, they’re helping to create a culture where mental wellbeing is valued just as much as physical safety.