In an extraordinary effort to raise awareness and funds for mental health, runner Alex Cleary has set himself an epic challenge, to run 100kms a day for 10 days from Bondi Beach in Sydney to St Kilda Beach in Melbourne.
Alex, a Maribrynong resident, is currently training hard in Melbourne to prepare for the monumental feat which will kickoff on September 12.
His mission is not only to cover over 1000 kilometres in 10 days but also to raise $100,000 to support the Black Dog Institute’s vital research, education programs, and mental health support services.
“When I was 19, I lost my sister to suicide. At the time, I didn’t know anything about mental health, depression, or anxiety, and I had no idea my sister was struggling. I spent years feeling helpless, as if there was nothing I could do,” said Alex.
“I’ve now realised there’s actually a lot I can do. In 2023 I decided to take some action, challenge myself and do what I could to make a difference. I took a leap of faith and signed up for the Antarctic Ice Marathon. Then, over the next six months, I ran 100km from Geelong to Melbourne, completed a marathon a day for seven days, placed 4th in the marathon in Antarctica, and won the Magellan Strait Marathon in Chile and I raised $28,000 dollars for the Black Dog Institute.”
More recently Alex participated in UltraMan Australia, a three-day triathlon where athletes complete a 10km Swim, 421.1km Bike ride and 84.3km run. Alex not only completed the event but also won the ‘Be Phenomenal’ award in recognition that he had no previous swimming experience and only started riding in February.
“The goal of running 100km a day for 10 days to raise $100,000 is by far the hardest challenge I’ve ever attempted but I’m more determined than ever. I know a lot of people in the community are impacted by mental health. I want to give them the opportunity to make a difference whether it’s through making a donation to Black Dog Institute, starting conversations to increase awareness of mental health or even being motivated to take positive steps to improve their own wellbeing.
“My family should have never lost a member to suicide and neither should any family.”
“Sadly, one in tenAustralian’s experience a mental health illness every year. I’m committed to doing what I can to improve this situation and hopefully can inspire others along the way.”
For more information on Alex’s run from Sydney to Melbourne and to make a donation to the Black Dog Institute visit Team Black Dog – Alex Cleary’s Fundraising Page.
Keep up to date with Alex’s journey on Instagram @clearlyruns
