If you’ve participated in a marathon this year, chances are you would have seen Scott Eastburn amongst the crowd.

The Gungahlin resident and Dickson College teacher has set himself a huge physical challenge by competing in 20 endurance events this year—14 of which are marathons—to raise funds and awareness for the Australian Cancer Research Foundation.

Scott says the idea for the challenge, “Live Fit Live Life”, started last year.

“My family has been directly affected by cancer and I wanted to do something to support all cancer patients and survivors – so this is my something,” Scott says.

“To be honest, I can’t remember how we decided to do 20 events, but I’ve always enjoyed running – I haven’t had too much experience running marathons, though. I thought the challenge including 14 marathons was good because 20-14 in 2014 had a nice ring to it.”

So far Scott is well on target – he has already participated in 17 events around Australia, from Dubbo to Albury. His final event will be a half ironman starting at the Gungahlin Leisure Centre at 5am on 6 December, which Canberrans are invited to participate in.

Scott admits he’s “surprised” at how well his body is holding up so far.

“My family actually thought I had rocks in my head to start with when I told them what I was doing, I think more out of concern about how my body would go,” he laughs.

“But they’ve been really supportive, and have come along to as many events as they can to cheer me on.”

This month a charity dinner will be held at Pistachio Restaurant in Torrens to raise money for Scott’s cause.

The four-course event will include an auction, selling wine, gift hampers and sporting kits, with all funds raised to go towards The Australian Cancer Research Foundation.

“I was so grateful when Pistachio approached me saying they wanted to help out after hearing what I was doing,” says Scott.

“Everyone has been so supportive, and it definitely makes the pain when running these marathons worth it.”

As part of the challenge, Scott is also selling “running rabbit” t-shirts and encouraging people to set themselves a goal for 2015 and become a “running rabbit” too. He hopes to raise at least $10,000 to go towards the Foundation this year.

“I’d love if people could participate in as many events as they can and join in the challenge,” Scott says.

“I’m hoping 2015 can be even bigger than this year in raising awareness.”

To donate to Scott’s cause visit Live Fit Live Life or challenge yourself and join in the half ironman challenge taking place on Saturday 6 December. 

The essentials

What: Live Fit Live Life Charity Dinner

Where: Pistachio Dining, 3a Torrens Place Torrens

When: 6.30pm for 7.00pm start, Tuesday 21 October

How much: $100 per person includes four courses with wine and canapés on arrival. To make a booking email reservations@pistachiodining.com.au

Web: www.livefitlivelife.com.au