For Nipissing alumni and siblings Margarida Shail and Paulo Carvalho, running has always been a part of their lives; a way to challenge themselves, stay connected, and push personal limits. But in 2024, their passion for the sport led to something even bigger: a Guinness World Record. Alongside their two other brothers, Jose Carvalho, Fernando Carvalho, they became the fastest four siblings to complete a half marathon, achieving the record at the Toronto Waterfront Marathon with a time of 5:43:07.
(Left to right) siblings and racers Jose Carvalho, Fernando Carvalho, Margarida Shail and Paulo Carvalho
For Margarida, who graduated from Nipissing University with a BA in Sociology in 2002 and now works at the university as Manager of Education and Professional Studies, the idea of setting a world record wasn't something she had ever considered, until her brothers showed her what was possible. "The year before, they set a record with a sibling trio challenge, and it was really inspiring to see that. I didn't even know these kinds of challenges existed until then," she said.
Paulo, who earned his BBA in Economics in 2010, was the driving force behind their attempt. Inspired by an article about a runner who had set a record at the same marathon, he started looking for challenges he and his siblings could take on together. "The decision to involve my siblings was easy. I run with them weekly, and we're all pretty competitive," he said. "We wanted to test our limits and prove what's possible with dedication and hard work. Plus, let's face it, we're not getting any younger!"
While Paulo was a previous member of Nipissing's cross-country team, Margarida had always viewed running as a personal, reflective time rather than a competitive pursuit. But, when it came to race day, they both felt the weight of the challenge, not just as individuals, but as a team. For Margarida, the toughest part was the anticipation leading up to the event, knowing she wasn't just accountable to herself, but to her brothers. For Paulo, the most memorable moment was seeing his last sibling cross the finish line, a mix of pride, relief, and joy in knowing their months of training had paid off.
Crossing the finish line as Guinness World Record holders was more than just a personal victory. "On a broader level, it was deeply meaningful to think about our family's journey and the challenges we've overcome together," Paulo reflected. "This accomplishment stands as a testament to our resilience and determination, highlighting everything we've built as a family despite the obstacles we faced as immigrants."
Both siblings credit their time at Nipissing for shaping their mindset when it comes to perseverance. Paulo, in particular, notes that the discipline required for academic success at Nipissing helped him develop the focus and time management needed to push himself as a runner. "Being part of the cross-country team showed me the importance of pushing personal limits to achieve shared goals," he said.
Their advice to current students? Keep pushing forward. "Whether you're running a race or navigating your studies, keep pushing forward, trust in your ability, and lean on your friends, family, staff and faculty. Everyone has their own unique pace," Margarida shared. Paulo echoed that sentiment: "It's never too late to set new goals and work toward becoming an even better version of yourself."
Now, with their names in the record books, Margarida and Paulo have not only achieved a remarkable feat, they've proven that with determination, teamwork, and a little sibling rivalry, anything is possible.
