Baltimore Executive Will Run Seven Marathons in January
A local Ravens director will tackle seven marathons on seven continents to raise funds for ALS research.
Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Running
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In January 2027, Baltimore resident Dave Lang will compete in the World Marathon Challenge, a test of endurance covering seven continents in seven days. The challenge aims to honor the legacy of O.J. Brigance by raising funds for the Brigance Brigade Foundation.
Why it matters
The effort highlights the ongoing need for ALS research and support after the passing of O.J. Brigance, who lived with the disease for 19 years while working for the Baltimore Ravens. Participation serves as a platform to secure $1 million in charitable donations.
The World Marathon Challenge consists of seven marathons across seven continents in 168 hours, with a field limited to 60 total participants. Current fundraising progress stands at $40,000 toward a $1 million objective.
The players
Dave Lang
A senior director of digital strategy and innovation for the Baltimore Ravens who is preparing for the World Marathon Challenge.
O.J. Brigance
A former Baltimore Ravens employee who spent 19 years living with ALS before his death in August 2026.
Brigance Brigade Foundation
A charitable organization focused on providing ALS research and support that is the recipient of Lang's fundraising efforts.
Baltimore Ravens
The professional football team where both Lang and Brigance worked.
The details
Participants in the World Marathon Challenge fly between continents using charter and cargo planes to reach the seven event sites. The series kicks off in Antarctica, where runners navigate an icy course, before continuing across the globe and ultimately concluding in Miami. The physical strain of the event demands strict time management to complete 183.4 miles within the seven-day window.
Timeline
August 2026: O.J. Brigance passed away.
October 2026: The Baltimore Running Festival occurred.
January 2027: Dave Lang will participate in the World Marathon Challenge.
Health Landscape
Endurance challenges like the World Marathon Challenge represent a growing trend of using extreme physical feats to increase visibility and funding for chronic health conditions. This initiative follows the pattern set by the event to focus institutional and public support on ALS research.
For those interested in supporting the cause, monitoring the progress of the Brigance Brigade Foundation offers a way to engage with ALS advocacy. Readers looking to participate in local endurance events can consult with their physician to ensure their physical training plans are safe.
The takeaway
Supporting ALS research remains a critical priority for honoring those affected by the disease. Interested individuals can contribute to the fundraising effort or track the progress of ongoing ALS research initiatives.
What happens next
Dave Lang will begin the World Marathon Challenge in January 2027.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest developments in local endurance events on our Running page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WBAL.
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