For David Gladkov, a second-year Economics student at the University of Algarve, taking part in La Solidaire de Brest 2026 was far more than a physical challenge. It was a test of resilience, personal growth and commitment to a greater cause.
At UAlg, this initiative takes the form of the UAlg/SEA-EU Inclusive and Solidarity Run and Walk, through which the academic community contributes to La Solidaire de Brest, an initiative led by the University of Brest. Across the SEA-EU Alliance, every kilometre recorded is converted into support for solidarity organisations, reinforcing a shared commitment to social impact.
Still shaping his future path, David already has some ideas in mind: “If I had to choose, I would like to become a certified accountant or a teacher.”
Used to running regularly, he decided to join the SEA-EU solidarity initiative at UAlg with a simple goal: to contribute. At first, he set himself a target that seemed entirely achievable: between 50 and 100 kilometres.
But, as he admits with a smile, “theory and practice don’t always match”.
What began as a moderate challenge quickly turned into a journey of self-improvement. In the first week, he covered more than 50 km and finished 7th in the ranking. This result surprised him and changed everything.
“I was really happy. I realised that if I could get closer to 100 km, I might reach the top 2. That’s when I decided to keep going.”
Inspired by a simple idea — “If you can see it here and you have the courage to speak it, it will happen” — he went on to achieve 1st place, covering 169.4 km in a single week.
Determined to push even further, David surpassed himself once again in the following week, reaching 200.2 km. In total, he completed an impressive 419.9 km and topped the weekly ranking on Strava, the app used by the initiative to track participants’ distance, on several occasions.
But beyond the numbers, what truly defined this experience was its personal impact.
“There were moments when I thought about stopping. That voice says ‘you’ve already done enough’. But when you realise how far you can go, you understand there’s always more.”
Alongside discipline and consistency, David also highlights the role of faith in his journey, describing it as a central source of strength in moments of doubt and fatigue. “Without it, I might have stopped much earlier,” he reflects, acknowledging how it helped him stay focused, keep going and find meaning in the challenge.
Sport, which has been part of his routine since the age of 15, plays a central role in his life. Between training sessions, running and playing football with friends, David has found in physical activity not only a way to stay healthy, but also to strengthen his mindset.
“Sport taught me that we should never doubt our own worth.”
This mindset has helped him build resilience, face difficult moments and resist the urge to give up. It is also reflected in other personal achievements, such as losing 13 kg in just a few months. This result comes from focus, consistency and doing what needs to be done, even when it is not the easiest option.
Along the way, David also highlights the role of friends who encouraged him to start running. Their support helped turn a simple habit into a genuine passion.
“In the end, these kilometres can help someone. And that makes it all worthwhile.”
Looking ahead, David is keen to remain involved in solidarity initiatives. He is considering donating clothes in the next edition of the Second Life Initiative promoted by UAlg, which encourages the reuse of items such as clothing and promotes circular economy and zero-waste practices, or taking part in future SEA-EU activities.
His message to other students is simple, yet powerful: “Mindset is essential to achieve your goals. Even when your mind says no, you have to find a way to say yes.”
At La Solidaire de Brest 2026, David did not run just for himself. He ran for a cause, for self-improvement and for everyone who may benefit from every step taken.
And in doing so, he showed that the greatest challenges are not measured in kilometres, but in the courage to keep going further.
