Ex Military man to run 500km in 106 hours
We invite you to be a part of a historic moment as military veteran Rodney ‘Rocket’ Cottam embarks on an awe-inspiring trail run challenge, covering 500km in just 106 hours, raising funds for veteran charity, Invictus Australia. The run is made all the more impressive given Rodney sustained permanent paralysis in his left arm from an accident 20 years ago.
From Monday July 3rd to Friday, July 7th, 2023, Rodney will push his physical and mental limits, averaging an incredible 100km per day. The journey will culminate at the iconic Anzac Memorial in Hyde Park, Sydney, and we are encouraging as many people as possible to join us to welcome and celebrate Rodney’s achievement.
Starting from the picturesque Mid-North Coast in New South Wales, Australia, Rodney’s trail run will take him along the eastern coast, offering breathtaking ocean views along the way. From lush rainforests to charming towns, farmlands to bustling suburbs, Rodney’s route showcases the diverse beauty of Australia’s landscapes.
JOIN US AT THE FINISH LINE
The finish line event at the northern forecourt of the Anzac Memorial promises to be a momentous occasion. This event is not just about celebrating an awe-inspiring athletic achievement but also about supporting Invictus Australia, an organisation dedicated to strengthening the physical and mental wellbeing of veterans and their families through the power of sport. Statistics tell us that we lose 6 veterans a month to suicide, and research supports the role of sport in building mental, social, physical and emotional wellbeing to help reduce these figures.
We invite all of Sydney to join us at the Anzac Memorial, at the northern forecourt near the Pool of Reflection. This presence will make a significant difference as we show our support and appreciation for Rodney’s remarkable accomplishment and for Invictus Australia’s impactful work.
- Date: Friday, July 7th
- Time: 3pm Rodney arrival time
- Location: Anzac Memorial Hyde Park, Sydney
- Special Guest: Invictus Australia Patron General the Hon Sir Peter Cosgrove (Retd) will officially welcome Rodney at the steps of the Memorial
The objectives of Rodney’s undertaking are two-fold: firstly, Rodney aims to raise $100,000 for Invictus Australia and is encouraging donations here https://run-rocket-run-500km-in-106hrs.raisely.com/
“Competing in these races helps me spread the word about what Run Rocket Run and Invictus Australia do throughout the running community,” according to Rodney.
The second goal, he added, is to test his resilience by pushing his boundaries. When asked what motivates him to cover long distances, he said;
“I really enjoy pushing myself. When I push myself beyond my limits and know that I can do it, it really excites me and reminds me we are all capable of so much more than our mind tells us. I want to remind people we all have deep inner reserves of resilience, to push us through challenging stages of life.”
What would it mean for the public to cheer Rodney home? “The support and encouragement from the community has been overwhelming during my preparation. I would like to extend a heartfelt invitation to everyone to join me at the finish line. Your presence would mean the world to me as I complete this journey and your presence will inspire and motivate me to cross that finish line, but it will also demonstrate your solidarity with the cause.”
INVICTUS AUSTRALIA SAYS THANKS
Invictus Australia CEO Michael Hartung says the impact Rodney makes to the organsiation can’t be underestimated. “On behalf of Invictus Australia, I would like to extend our deepest thanks to Rodney for his selfless efforts yet again in raising awareness and support for the needs of veterans. His support will make a significant impact in the lives of our veterans and their families, providing them with the opportunity to regain their confidence and reclaim their lives through sport.
Rodney’s trail run challenge serves as a powerful reminder of the strength within all of us. We are honored to have him as an advocate for Invictus Australia. Together, we can make a difference and create a brighter future for those who have served our country.
We encourage everyone to join us in welcoming Rodney at the finish line and showing our appreciation for his remarkable achievement. Your presence and support will help us continue our important work in supporting our veterans on their journey to recovery and rehabilitation.
Thank you, Rodney, for your incredible dedication, and thank you to everyone who is supporting Rodney and Invictus Australia. Together, we are making a difference, one step at a time.” Michael Hartung, CEO of Invictus Australia
A team effort
This run would not be possible without the enduring support of a team of dedicated, passionate supporters. Special thanks to the Run Rocket Run raft of partners – Resimac, Momentum Media, Whiskey & Friends, Parramatta Jaguar Land Rover and Set in Motion Physiotherapy, who by supporting Rodney also support the work of Invictus Australia.
follow rodney’s journey
To follow Rodney’s journey, stay tuned to the Run Rocket Run Instagram feed and website, plus Invictus Australia Stories on Facebook & Instagram.
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