Halifax man prepares to run Greenland polar ice-cap marathon as 14th charity challenge of 2026

Inspired by his colleagues who have been affected by pancreatic cancer, Oli Burbage-Hall will run the course in sub-zero temperatures on October 24 and 25 to fund vital research and support for patients. Incredibly, he has already completed 12 running challenges this year for the charity.

Oli set out to complete 16 running events in 2026, including a half and full marathon on Greenland’s ice caps, after his colleague was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Oli’s predecessor died from the same disease just three days after Oli started his senior role.

Oli, 50 said: “When my colleague felt unwell, she pushed for tests. My predecessor’s experience was at the back of her mind. She was able to start treatment because she was aware of pancreatic cancer and its symptoms.”

Currently seven in ten people with pancreatic cancer receive no treatment at all. Just ten per cent have surgery, the only potential cure, while only a quarter receive life-extending chemotherapy.

The few existing treatments are too toxic for many people to tolerate. Tragically, half of people with the disease die within three months of their diagnosis.

Oli said: “After being dealt with an unfair hand, my colleague and the team have acted with such bravery and compassion. I had to do something immense for them.

“Greenland will be breathtaking, but the temperature and surface will keep things difficult. I’ve never run a marathon in conditions like it, let alone a marathon and a half. I’m excited but it is intimidating. I’m glad I took advantage of the cold weather in January to prepare - it’s been challenging trying to get ready for sub-zero temperatures when it was so hot over the summer! I’ve lost count of the number of ice baths I’ve endured.”

Including training, Oli has run over 1,100 miles in five countries this year and raised almost £4,000.

Oli said: “It hasn’t been easy. There have been points where I’ve felt like I’ve taken on too much. The past few months have been particularly exhausting.

“Whenever I struggle, I just think about why I’m doing this - for everyone else who has been affected by pancreatic cancer - and I’m able to pick myself up and carry on.”

You can see a breakdown of Oli’s planned challenges for 2026, and donate, at www.fundraise.pancreaticcancer.org.uk/fundraisers/olifax.