TOBY Gilmore is always on the lookout for a fitness challenge and an opportunity to help raise funds for local community projects.
His latest undertaking aims to involve as many people as possible on the first weekend of October.
The UltraFest48 will be Swan Hill’s own 4x4x48 endurance challenge, derived from a concept made famous by American David Goggins, one the world’s best ultra-endurance athletes.
The idea is to run or walk four miles, every four hours, for 48 hours.
Four miles equates to 6.4 kilometres.
Mr Gilmore said the goal was to make it a Swan Hill community event that gets everybody involved and raises money for local charities.
“We want to make it inclusive for all ages and all abilities by offering variables to the challenge, so that you don’t have to do the full original concept,” he said.
“The distances can be shortened or done as a team, there are so many different changes that can be made.
“We are open to people suggesting their own version, if you’re not into running or walking it can be swimming, cycling, chin-ups, push-ups, pilates or golf, the options are endless.
“The cycling community have suggested completing their regular town loop every four hours.”
Local causes set to benefit are Swan Hill District Health’s new MRI machine appeal, We Believe in Unicorns, and the Youth Inc youth emergency housing support.
Swan Hill District Health acting chief executive Chloe Keogh said fundraising for the MRI scanner in Swan Hill was well on the way to the targeted $2.1 million.
“We have raised about $1.5 million so far,” she said.
“Currently if you need an MRI scan you must travel to Bendigo, Mildura or Melbourne, which is quite a distance.
“So, we would really like to give one to the community sooner rather than later.”
Entry to the challenge is free and participants will be encouraged to obtain their own sponsors or donations through friends, family or businesses, then contribute the money raised to the nominated bank account or GoFundMe page.
Organisers are also seeking business sponsorships and support with a range of sponsorship packages available at different tiers.
Swan Hill Soccer Club will be the UltraFest48 hub, where runners and walkers will complete their desired distance at a safe location, around Ken Harrison Reserve.
Mr Gilmore said the challenge would start on Friday, October 4 at 4pm, and the last activity on October 6 at noon, which would be followed by a celebration at the soccer club.
“The beauty of the challenge is that if there are people from a neighbouring town, down in the city or even across the world, but they have a connection to Swan Hill or any of the charities, we encourage them to also take part,” he said.
“It’s all about deciding on your challenge distance and activity, then showing up every four hours to get it done.”
The aims of the UltraFest48 are to promote health and fitness, be inclusive of all ages and abilities, and to challenge participants’ physical and mental strength.
