Feeling the breeze on your face as you head off into the distance is refreshing and good for your health. It releases feel-good endorphins, strengthens muscles and increases blood circulation. Ultrarunner Ned Brockman didn’t just run for his own benefit. He ran 1,000 miles for charity in what is now called “Ned’s Disgusting Challenge.” Here are the details of what this amazing athlete accomplished.
Charity challenge
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Ned Brockman is a 25-year-old young electrical engineer from New South Wales, Australia who has turned into an extreme ultrarunner. He decided to run 1,000 miles, or 1,609.3km, around a single 400m running track at Sydney Olympic Park in just 10 consecutive days. His goal was to raise money to help Australians fighting homelessness and attempt to break a world record. The current fastest 1,000 mile record is 10 days, 10 hours, 30 minutes and 36 seconds, set by ultrarunner Giannis Couros. Kouros won this title in 1988 in New York.
beat expectations
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Ned Brockman’s 2024 challenge began on Thursday, October 3rd, and pushed him to the limit. He ate and tried to sleep in a tent on the running track. I also tried to avoid running during the hottest part of the day.
On day 10, Brockman shared in an Instagram post that he had already flown about 886 miles (1,426 kilometers). He powered through raw blisters, swollen toes and painful feet that were three sizes bigger than normal. He also suffered from tendonitis in part of his right lower leg. By this time, he had already collected over 1 million Australian dollars (AUD).
How long did it take Ned Brockman to run 1,000 miles?
Ned Brockman / Ned Brockman Instagram
On Tuesday, October 15th, a large crowd cheered as Ned Brockman crossed the finish line in tears after just 12 days, 13 hours, 16 minutes, and 45 seconds. He ran an average of about 128 km or 79 miles per day.
Although Brockman didn’t set a new world record, he overcame immense challenges and has raised more than A$3.4 million for charity to date. His incredible athleticism and determination to help others are admirable and speak volumes about Brockman’s character. We’re sure this isn’t the last we hear about the accomplishments of this powerful athlete.
