Most marathon runners fuel up with energy bars and sports drinks. One Nova Scotian chose a different path.
David Wadden recently completed his first ever marathon after spending months visiting 59 donair shops across the Halifax area as part of a self-created challenge called the Donair-Athon.
The unique project combined running, cycling, food reviews, and fundraising. Wadden would run or bike to a donair shop, enjoy a donair, rate the experience, and then make the trip back home. Along the way, he shared reviews online and tracked everything from taste rankings to value and portion size.
More Than Just a Food Challenge
What started as a mission to find the best donair also became a fundraiser for Feed Nova Scotia.
Through the project, Wadden raised more than $2,200 while logging over 500 kilometres of running and 300 kilometres of cycling.
From Donairs to the Finish Line
Despite having little running experience before starting the challenge, Wadden used the Donair-Athon as motivation to train for the Valley Harvest Marathon in Nova Scotia’s Annapolis Valley.
After months of preparation, he successfully completed the full 42.2 kilometre marathon earlier this month.
A Very Nova Scotian Story
While most runners might not recommend following a training plan built around donairs, Wadden proved that determination, creativity, and a sense of humour can go a long way.
By combining Nova Scotia’s most famous food with fitness and fundraising, he created a uniquely local challenge that raised money for a good cause and helped him achieve a major personal goal.
