Running News Daily

At age 66, retired banker Steve James has accomplished an extraordinary feat — completing 200 marathons in 200 consecutive days while running around the entire coastline of Great Britain.

Starting in Topsham, Devon, in April, James covered an astonishing 5,240 miles (8,433 km) before returning to his starting point this past Saturday. Throughout the journey, researchers from the University of Exeter closely monitored his physical condition to study the effects of such extreme endurance on the human body.

“I haven’t had a day off in seven months,” James said after finishing. “I’m quite looking forward to the prospect of a lie-in and not having to complete 26 miles tomorrow.”

Despite enduring fierce weather, flooded paths, and even a gout flare-up that sent him briefly to the hospital, James remained determined. His route tested both his mental and physical resilience — but he finished strong and injury-free.

Over the course of his journey, James went through seven pairs of trainers, faced storms Floris and Amy, and climbed the equivalent elevation of Mount Everest ten times. Through it all, he regularly shared updates with followers on social media, inspiring thousands with his perseverance and humor.

Reflecting on his achievement, James said,

“It’s just shown me that you’re never too old to take on something huge. You’ve just got to start and keep going.”

His 200-day coastal run stands as a powerful reminder that age is no barrier to endurance — only determination and spirit truly define the limits of human potential.