Zach Vella to Run 2,700km from London to Malta in Aid of YMCA Malta

Maltese endurance runner Zach Vella is preparing for an extraordinary challenge: a 2,600+ kilometre run from London to Malta in support of YMCA Malta and its Drop-In Centre and shelter services. Titled Miles from Home, the journey will see Vella cover the equivalent of more than 45 ultra-marathons, averaging around 60 kilometres a day for over six weeks. The route will take him across France, Switzerland and Italy, including long rural stretches and mountainous terrain.

The run will start on March 22nd at the Indian YMCA’s Mahatma Gandhi Hall in London, with a symbolic tribute stop at St Paul’s Cathedral, where YMCA founder Sir George Williams is buried. From there, Vella will continue south through Europe, finishing in Malta with the final leg timed to coincide with the YMCA Europe General Assembly.

Vella described the run as a mission grounded in human dignity. “I firmly believe that shelter is a human right and the foundation of life and wellbeing. Everyone should have the opportunity to dream and follow their path,” he said.

Anthony Camilleri, CEO of YMCA Malta, said the challenge highlights the obstacles faced by those seeking to rebuild their lives. “This is an extraordinary physical undertaking that symbolises the long and often difficult journey many people face. Zach’s commitment helps shine a light on the support systems people rely on,” he said.

YMCA networks across Europe will support Vella along the route, demonstrating the organisation’s international reach and shared commitment to social justice. The public, corporate partners, and communities are encouraged to follow the journey and support the initiative, with donations helping to expand and enhance services at the Drop-In Centre and shelters.

For more information on the run, sponsorship, and donations, visit: linktr.ee/homebound.mt.

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