Anzac Day Challenge a 100km ultra-marathon to commemorate soldiers

IT is hard to imagine the gruelling conditions faced by Anzac soldiers, but a 100km ultra-marathon aims to help people better emphasise with their plight.

Willoughby resident Christian Warren, 40, is taking part in this year's Anzac Day Challenge - a gruelling 100km marathon from Manly Dam to St Ives Showground. Picture: Braden Fastier

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IT is hard to imagine the gruelling conditions and long, physically exhausting days experienced by the Australian and New Zealand soldiers who served in the Gallipoli war.

But for those who are looking for a way to better emphasise with their plight while commemorating our servicemen this Anzac Day, a 100km ultra-marathon could be just the ticket.

On Saturday, March 23, the Anzac Day Challenge will see participants embark on a 100km return course from Manly Dam to St Ives Showground to be completed in 24 hours.

The race also aims to raise funds for Soldier On, a charity which supports injured defence force personnel.

Willoughby runner Christian Warren, 40, has once again signed up for the endurance event after it was rained out last year.

“There were a lot of storms and all the national parks were closed from flooding so what they did instead was turn it into a lap race,” he said.

The Anzac Day Challenge ultra-marathon runs from Manly Dam to St Ives Showground.

“I thought it was going to be really boring but it was good fun because normally when you do a trail race, it can get a bit lonely by yourself.”

The father of two began running five years ago and gradually built up distance.

“My training is back-to-back running so I’ll do 20-30km in consecutive days six times a week,” he said.

“Nutrition is a big part of it — because you expend so much energy, you have to keep yourself fully fuelled and get enough recovery.”

Mr Warren, who was born in the UK and moved to Australia 12 years ago, said that he wanted to put himself through “a bit of suffering” as a symbol for soldiers and armed forces.

“These guys are real heroes — you can read stories about what they’ve done but I don’t think anyone truly appreciates what they’ve been through,” he said. “Even 100km is nothing compared to what they’ve done.”

The challenge has also called on north shore residents to sign up as a volunteer, with roles to suit everyone including aid station staff, course marshalls and forerunners.

To register as a volunteer or enter the challenge, go to anzacdaychallenge.com.au.

To donate: soldieron.giveeasy.org/campaigns/anzac-day-challenge-100km-for-soldier-on/