This may have escapes your attention but 10 weeks ago, King Charles abdicated. No, not King Charles III of the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth. King Charles the acclaimed English folk rock musician, who announced his “abdication” and relaunch as Charles Costa at the same time as announcing a new career direction: yes he was going to be releasing new music, but also… he was going to run 90 marathons in 90 along the Pacific Crest Trail.
And that challenge is now well underway.
Costa is running to support the invaluable work carried out by The Jed Foundation, a nonprofit organisation that aims to help prevent suicide among US teens and young adults, and James’ Place, a UK-based charity dedicated to suicide prevention for men.
The cause resonates deeply with Costa. Ten years ago, a skiing accident left him with a brain trauma that continues to shape his mental health journey. Through the challenges he has faced, he says he has gained profound empathy for those grappling with similar struggles. Costa is now determined to turn his personal experience into a beacon of hope for others.
He began his run at the Canadian border on July 20 with a goal to finish on October 20 near the Mexico border.
“After months of planning and training, I’m finally beginning the adventure of a lifetime,” said Costa. “I believe there’s a strong interconnection between running on the trail and making music to keep my mind and emotions balanced. After I’ve been running, I feel free and completely released from the struggles I face when I wake up. No other therapy can come close to the healing I experience from running and singing.”
He will be releasing new singles starting this September, providing a soundtrack to his massive challenge.
You can follow Costa’s journey on Instagram @charlescostaofficial and donate to the cause for The Jed Foundation on CrowdChange and for James’ Place on GoFundMe. Costa will be joined by running clubs, other athletes, students, and organizations throughout his journey.
Costa previously did a 40 marathon and 40 gigs in 40 days challenge back in 2021.
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