Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce member Marius Coste, Group Cleaning Manager at Elior UK and founder of the Miles of Smiles campaign, has reached the 14-month milestone of an ambitious 82-week challenge focused on raising awareness of mental health and supporting SAMH and Clan Cancer Support.
The campaign challenges Marius to complete a minimum of 50km every week through running, cycling and walking — in costume — while creating conversations around mental health and encouraging communities to come together in support of those who need it.
After 14 months, Miles of Smiles has achieved:
- 3,853km completed
- £5,531 raised for SAMH and Clan Cancer Support since June 2025
- More than £12,500 raised in total since the campaign began in 2021
- 292 cold showers completed
- 62 cold water dips completed
- Zero weeks missed
Month 14 has been one of the most memorable stages of the journey, combining international experiences with local community support.
During a family holiday to China, Marius completed a Superman run on the Great Wall of China before continuing the challenge in Foshan, Guangdong, running in temperatures reaching 38°C with 80% humidity — among the toughest conditions faced during the campaign.
Returning to Aberdeen, the commitment continued with appearances at Aberdeen parkrun, including a Leprechaun costume run and a giant toilet roll costume run in challenging weather conditions, reinforcing the campaign’s message that consistency and resilience matter regardless of circumstances.
The month also brought significant recognition from both national and international supporters.
Miles of Smiles was featured in the latest Rotary International in Great Britain & Ireland Magazine, highlighting the campaign’s journey and impact.
Further support came from Rotary Club Cluj-Napoca Cetățuie in Romania, together with Marius’s brother, who jointly donated £1,252.82 to the campaign. The donation was split equally between the two supporters and represented a powerful example of communities uniting across borders for a shared purpose.
Marius also received written recognition from the Scottish Government’s Minister for Mental Wellbeing, describing the achievements of the campaign as “truly impressive”.
With five months remaining, Miles of Smiles continues to demonstrate the positive impact that individuals, businesses, charities and communities can create when they work together.
The campaign’s final months will continue to focus on raising awareness, encouraging conversations around mental health, and supporting the vital work of SAMH and Clan Cancer Support.
Read the Rotary International in Great Britain & Ireland feature:
https://magazine.rotarygbi.org/marius-coste-walk-july-2026