Sport
1 February, 2024
Recruiting for athletes
THE search is on for participants for the 2024 Indigenous Marathon Project Squad.
The Indigenous Marathon Project (IMP), a program that has garnered traction across many running and Indigenous communities throughout Australia alike, is a six-month health and wellbeing, and leadership development program – transforming the lives of its participants while opening doors they may not have once dared to knock at.
Applications are now open. The national try-out tour is set to take place early 2024 to identify 12 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to take on the New York City Marathon.
Indigenous Marathon Foundation founder and director and world marathon champion Robert de Castella said using the skills the marathon taught them to find their true strength, IMP squad members to their communities as inspirational agents of change and healthy lifestyle advocates with lasting ripple effects.
“The project, a core program of the Indigenous Marathon Foundation, is open to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples aged 18-30 with no prior running experience necessary,” he said.
Mr de Castella said successful applicants would have just six months to train for the biggest marathon in the world, the TCS New York City Marathon, with his support and experienced IMP coaches. Costs are covered by the Indigenous Marathon Foundation.
“In addition, the squad will be mentored by some of the 142 IMP graduates, who have passed through the program since its inception 15 years ago in 2010, most who continue to be an integral part of the IMF family,” he said.
“The search is not about discovering the fastest runners, it is about finding motivated people who possess the strength and desire to inspire their communities and the nation through their commitment and ability to tackle challenges, one step at a time”.
Mr de Castella said by joining, IMP would push the boundaries of the 12 successful recruits, while simultaneously offering huge rewards and unforgettable experiences.
“Don’t hesitate, register now and take up the IMP challenge,” he said.
“Running is easy, just one step after the other, but running a marathon is hard, just like life can be, especially if you want to make a difference.
“IMP will change your life and the lives of others in your community and family, just ask any of the 142 IMP graduates.
“Many of them never thought they could do it, but they did. Don’t hold yourself back, give it a go and apply now. You never know what version of yourself is waiting for you at the finish line.”
The 2024 national try-out tour will visit communities around Australia and select six men and six women in a trial that includes a 3km run, and an informal interview with an IMP Coach and/or IMF staff member.
Visit the website www.imf.org.au
