British ultra-endurance athlete William Goodge has achieved a remarkable feat, breaking the world record for running across Australia. Completing the grueling 3,800km journey in just 35 days, Goodge beat the previous record by four days. He began his run on 15 April from Cottesloe Beach in Perth and crossed the finish line at Sydney’s Bondi Beach on 19 May, surrounded by supporters and fellow runners.
The 31-year-old’s journey was not just a physical challenge, but an emotional tribute to his late mother, Amanda, who passed away from cancer in 2018. Her memory was the driving force behind his record-breaking run, and Goodge marked the end of his journey by placing a bunch of lilies at the shoreline of Bondi Beach in her honor.
Throughout the run, he averaged over 100 kilometers per day equivalent to running two and a half marathons daily with a pace of around seven and a half minutes per kilometer. Despite the physically demanding conditions, including harsh terrain, fatigue, and extreme wear on his body, Goodge was determined to finish strong. “We start before the sun comes up and finish when the sun’s gone down,” he remarked during the challenge.
He endured various physical issues, including toenails falling off and a rotting toe, but said ironically that his knees held up well. The first nine days were especially brutal as he adjusted to the punishing routine, often hallucinating at night and experiencing deep pain in his bones and joints. Nevertheless, he pressed on, finding motivation in the memory of his mother and the cause he was supporting.
Goodge’s journey was also a charity effort, raising money for the Cancer Council of Australia. He saw the run not only as a personal test of endurance but also as a way to channel his grief into something meaningful. “She would be proud of everything I’ve done. She’d also be concerned,” he said with a smile, reflecting on the mix of pride and worry his mother might have felt.
On the final day, he was joined by hundreds of runners who ran the last five to ten kilometers with him, creating a celebratory atmosphere at the finish line. Just before completing the run, he recorded a short message in Centennial Park, full of energy and gratitude.
In addition to being the fastest person to run across Australia, Goodge also holds the record as the fastest British athlete to run across the United States. His achievement in Australia now adds another impressive chapter to his growing legacy in ultra-endurance sports.
The run showcased not only physical resilience but emotional strength. Battling pain, extreme fatigue, and emotional memories, Goodge proved that endurance sport can be about much more than athleticism it can be a tribute, a healing process, and a way to inspire others facing their own battles.
