Week-long run for a worthy cause

COULD you run seven marathons in seven locations in just seven days?

That’s exactly what Mount Helen grandfather Peter Mahoney is doing this week for Bravehearts’ 777 Marathon, raising money for the child protection organisation with every step.

At 59 years old Mr Mahoney has completed more than 150 marathons, but he said participating in the charity run was particularly important.

“The minute I got involved with that I just knew it gave me a purpose,” he said.

“I’ve got five kids and I’ve got nine grandkids, so it immediately appealed to me as being such a worthy cause.

“I’ve just seen a real purpose in being able to do it and the challenge of course is a great one.”

Normally held across seven states, this year’s 777 Marathon is contained to locations across Queensland only and Mr Mahoney took off in Toowoomba on Monday.

Runners across the country also join the challenge virtually, and Mr Mahoney will cover around 290 kilometres before crossing the finish line in the Gold Coast on Sunday.

Returning to the event for a third time, Mr Mahoney said it was important to continue talking about child abuse and support Bravehearts’ work with affected children and advocacy for legislative reform.

“Their story is bigger than us runners. We get some of the accolades because we catch people’s attention, but the bigger picture is Bravehearts and the great work that they do,” he said.

“It’s such a taboo subject, no one wants to talk about it, but still, child sexual abuse lurks in the shadows.”

“We don’t want another generation of survivors in 20 years, we’re getting in at the bottom level and trying to enable kids to speak up.”

To sponsor Mr Mahoney visit bit.ly/3vQ1waN.