In an extraordinary display of human endurance and determination, British ultra-endurance athlete William Goodge has made headlines for setting a remarkable world record by running across the length of Australia. This incredible feat followed a grueling journey that took him 35 days to complete. Goodge, who is 31 years old, embarked on this daunting 3,800-kilometer (approximately 2,361 miles) challenge starting from the scenic Cottesloe Beach in Perth on April 15, ending triumphantly at the iconic Bondi Beach in Sydney.
Goodge, born and raised in Bedfordshire in England, pushed his physical limits throughout this odyssey by averaging an astounding two-and-a-half marathons daily—approximately 100 kilometers each day. His motivation for undertaking such a challenging quest was deeply personal, rooted in the loss of his mother, Amanda, who succumbed to cancer in 2018. As he traversed the vast and diverse Australian landscape, Goodge aimed to raise money for cancer charities in the UK, United States, and Australia, thus channeling his grief into a cause of significant importance.
Prior to Goodge’s remarkable achievement, the world record for running across Australia was held by Chris Turnbull, who completed the journey in 39 days in 2023. Just the year before, Australian electrician Nedd Brockmann undertook the same route, finishing in 47 days and garnering attention for his charitable efforts that raised millions. Goodge’s ability to outpace Turnbull by an impressive four days is a testament to his rigorous training and unyielding spirit.
Upon completing his journey, Goodge reflected on the immense challenges he faced during the run, describing it as “like a revolving nightmare that wouldn’t end.” He shared with the media that the initial nine days were particularly taxing; however, he found a way to push through the physical pain and mental hurdles, affirming to himself the importance of perseverance amidst suffering.
His finish line moment was profoundly moving, as Goodge placed a bouquet of flowers on Bondi’s famous shoreline in memory of his late mother. “She was the most special person in my life,” he articulated to the Guardian Australia, noting how proud she would have been of his accomplishments while also expressing concern for his well-being.
Throughout his arduous journey, Goodge faced physical adversities that included losing toenails, rotting feet, and sleep deprivation resulting from agonizing bone pain. Despite these obstacles, he drew strength from memories of his mother’s battle with cancer, which helped him endure his own discomfort. He expressed how thinking of her fortitude during her illness provided the necessary motivation to keep pushing forward.
Goodge also encountered almost all of Australia’s native wildlife along his route, although unfortunately, many were casualties of the roads he ran upon. This journey allowed him to appreciate the diverse and stunning Australian countryside, showcasing the harsh realities and beautiful vistas the land has to offer.
In gratitude, Goodge acknowledged Chris Turnbull’s support throughout the preparation for this record-setting run, taking valuable insights from Turnbull’s experience in order to navigate this grueling endeavor successfully. Notably, William Goodge also holds the record for being the fastest British man to complete a run across the United States, going from Los Angeles to New York in just 55 days, further demonstrating his exceptional capabilities as an endurance athlete.
As Goodge’s inspiring journey captures headlines, he reminds us of the heights of human endurance, the significance of honoring loved ones, and the heartfelt ways we can channel our experiences into broader positive impacts on the world around us.