Interview by Ann Dingli, Journalist and Writer

During Christmas week 2024, Luca Zarb undertook an extraordinary challenge – running seven marathons in seven days across Malta in aid of Hospice Malta. Covering nearly 300 kilometres, his journey was not just a test of endurance but a powerful statement about resilience, community, and the importance of perseverance.

Now fully recovered from the physical demands of the challenge, Luca reflects on the experience with immense gratitude. “Physically, I had some knee pain and tightness at the beginning, but that’s all gone now. Mentally, I was in a good place throughout because I was constantly surrounded by people, learning about their stories and sharing the journey with them.”

Preparation played a key role in the success of the 7×7 Challenge, but as Luca emphasises, it wasn’t just about the training. “My job that week was simply to wake up and run. Everything else was taken care of by an incredible support team – family, friends, and volunteers who managed everything from food and clean clothes to social media updates. Some aspects, like physiotherapy and ice baths, came together spontaneously as people saw what I was doing and wanted to help.”

Beyond the physical feat, Luca’s challenge underscored the importance of endurance – not just in sport, but in life. “We live in a world of instant gratification where patience and persistence aren’t always valued. But nothing truly meaningful comes easy. This challenge reinforced the beauty of hard work and showed how perseverance can lead to something truly rewarding.”

More than just a personal test, the 7×7 Challenge became a communal effort, bringing people together in unexpected ways. “The sense of community was incredible. Runners joined me along the way, forming bonds and sharing their own aspirations. Some were even inspired to take on their own endurance challenges. It became more than just running – it was about encouraging and lifting each other up.”

As an architecture student, Luca has explored the availability of spaces for sports and activity in Malta, and this challenge reinforced his belief that the country has room for improvement. “While we have beautiful coastal routes and countryside trails, formal infrastructure for active living is lacking. Investing in affordable and well-maintained public spaces could make a significant difference in encouraging people to stay active.”

Looking back, Luca doesn’t feel the challenge changed him fundamentally, but it strengthened his belief in the power of collective effort. “For me, it was also a way of saying farewell to the island before moving on to new opportunities. But seeing how it inspired others—whether to challenge themselves, connect with their community, or support Hospice Malta—made it even more meaningful.”

At its core, the 7×7 Challenge was about pushing boundaries while keeping a sense of joy. “The most important thing was to have fun, go at my own pace, and enjoy the journey. The fact that it resonated with so many people and supported Hospice Malta made it truly special.”