7 Marathons - 7 Continents - 7 Days
A Distinguished Cancer Surgeon and Testicular Cancer Survivor CONQUERS THE world marathon challenge
End of the World Marathon Challenge; Miami, FL
First race of the World Marathon Challenge; Antarctica
-24 degrees Fahrenheit
Second marathon in Cape Town, South Africa
“We are capable of much more than we often think.” - Dr. Clark Gamblin
T. Clark Gamblin, MD, MS, MBA, a distinguished cancer surgeon and testicular cancer survivor successfully completed the World Marathon Challenge® to benefit the Testicular Cancer Awareness Foundation (TCAF) January 31st-February 6th, 2025. The World Marathon Challenge® is “a logistical and physical challenge to run seven marathons on seven continents in seven consecutive days.”
Dr. Gamblin’s feat kicked off on January 31, 2025, in Antarctica followed by stops in Cape Town, South Africa; Perth, Australia; Dubai, UAE; Madrid, Spain; and Fortaleza, Brazil before culminating on February 6, 2025, in Miami, Florida. The participants all finished the Challenge in under six days!
This journey was about more than endurance. It was about fighting for a cause that saves lives. As a testicular cancer survivor himself, Clark knows firsthand the importance of early detection, education, and access to expert medical care. Through this challenge, Clark pushed his limits—not just for himself, but for every patient, survivor, and caregiver impacted by this disease.
Clark’s determination was tested in Madrid, where he battled severe back spasms, making every step a challenge. But just as so many testicular cancer patients fight through obstacles on their journey, Clark pushed forward with resilience and purpose, completing the final two half marathons in Fortaleza, Brazil, and Miami, Florida.
He ran a total of 157.2 miles in 6 days on 7 continents.
“We are immensely grateful that Dr. Gamblin chose Testicular Cancer Awareness Foundation as the beneficiary of his challenge. Testicular cancer is seldom talked about when compared to other cancers,” says Kim Jones, founder and CEO of TCAF. “Awareness and early-detection are key.” Kim’s son Jordan passed away in 2016 after battling testicular cancer twice. Jordan Jones was first diagnosed late stage at the early age of 13 and inspired the start of Testicular Cancer Awareness Foundation.
As a testicular cancer survivor himself, one of the goals of Gamblin’s challenge is to raise awareness of the disease. According to TCAF, testicular cancer is the leading cancer in men ages 15 to 44 and in this age group, more men will die of testicular cancer than women with breast cancer.
In the United States 1 out of every 250 males will develop testicular cancer in their lifetime: one new diagnosis every hour. Every day a life is lost. Testicular cancer has a cure rate of over 95% when detected early. TCAF promotes the importance of early detection through the practice of monthly self-exams to reduce the number of men being diagnosed with late-stage testicular cancer, ultimately saving lives.
As a cancer surgeon, Dr. Gamblin helps others navigate the uncertainty of cancer and find hope. Little did he know he would use those skills when he was diagnosed with testicular cancer in 2018 to navigate his own personal journey, including two operations and chemotherapy.
During the year of his diagnosis, he decided to run marathons in Boston and New York City for the American Liver Foundation. These two races led him to pursue the Six Major Marathons of the World, which he completed in 2023. The races included Boston, New York, Chicago, London, Berlin, and Tokyo.
The marathon journey spanned Dr. Gamblin’s initial operation, chemotherapy, subsequent recurrence, and a second operation. The mechanism of running allowed him to raise funds for two nonprofits and help others with similar struggles.
In addition to raising testicular cancer awareness, Dr. Gamblin fundraising goal is $250,000 to benefit TCAF’s programs, which include providing educational materials to healthcare facilities and schools; financial aid for patients and families; in-person conferences for patients, survivors, caregivers, and medical providers; and more.
Though the marathon has ended, donations to the fundraiser are still being accepted, and your continued support is deeply appreciated.
Donations can also be made by texting 777 to 707070
Sponsors
A heartfelt thank you to the major sponsors including:
Gerald & Sharon Wadina Family Foundation
Froedtert & Medical College of Wisconsin
Brewers Community Foundation, Inc.
Vander Galien Family
Mr. & Mrs. Roger Magowitz in honor of Melissa Smith
Stein Garden Center
Baird Foundation
About the race
The World Marathon Challenge consists of 7 marathons on 7 continents on 7 consecutive days.
The schedule for the races are as follows:
Race 1: January 31st - Novo, Antarctica
Race 2: February 1st - Cape Town, South Africa
Race 3: February 2nd - Perth, Australia
Race 4: February 3rd - Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Race 5: February 4th - Madrid, Spain (Europe)
Race 6: February 5th - Fortaleza, Brazil (South America)
Race 7: February 6th - Miami, USA (North America)
In the News
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel - Froedtert surgeon Dr. Clark Gamblin is running 7 marathons on 7 continents in 7 days
Jackson Academy - JA Alumnus Takes on 2025 World Marathon Challenge
WTMJ 4 - 7 marathons, 7 continents, 7 consecutive days: Meet the doctor ready to run
620WTMJ - Pancake Breakfast Special: 7 marathons, 7 days, 7 continents; Dr. Clark Gamblin
FOX News - Doctor and cancer survivor gears up to run 7 marathons on 7 continents in 7 days
OutKick - Dr. T. Clark Gamblin Talks Competing In World Marathon Challenge | Hot Mic With Hutton And Withrow
About Dr. T. Clark Gamblin
T. Clark Gamblin, MD, MS, MBA is an internationally known hepatobiliary surgeon with a clinical and research interest focused on cancers of the liver and bile ducts.
Born and raised in Mississippi, Dr. Gamblin received his medical degree from the University of Mississippi. He trained in surgical oncology at the University of Pittsburgh, where he obtained a master’s degree in clinical research. He is also a graduate of the Kellogg School of Management where he earned an MBA.
In 2010, Dr. Gamblin came to the Medical College of Wisconsin where he founded the Division of Surgical Oncology. Under his leadership, clinical programs have grown to unprecedented levels through research and investments in academics and training. He prides himself on clinical excellence and a team approach to pioneering and progressive research, high-quality/ high-impact education, and intentional work toward building an award-winning cancer program.
Dr. Gamblin’s philanthropic prowess has garnered millions in donations and gifts for the nonprofit sector. He has established endowed chairs and fostered significant community engagement — locally, regionally, and internationally.
Through his commitment to the American Liver Foundation (ALF), Dr. Gamblin has a rich history of volunteering and raising funds through his passion for running. He has served as a national board member and chaired the national ALF Development Committee in 2018–20.
In 2023, Dr. Gamblin earned one of the most prestigious and sought-after marathon medals: the Six Star Medal. This feat is for runners that have completed the World Marathon Majors — Tokyo, Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago, and New York City.
Follow Dr. Gamblin’s journey on Instagram @tclarkgamblin