Stratford ultra-runner Chris Dixon will represent Australia in Japan this May, lining up in one of the sport’s most demanding endurance events.
On May 23, Dixon will compete at the Oceania 24 Hour Championships in Hirosaki, testing himself against some of the region’s best ultra-distance athletes in a race that challenges competitors to cover as much distance as possible within 24 hours.
For Dixon, who trains primarily on the roads around Stratford, the selection reflects years of discipline and persistence.
With the nearest athletics track more than an hour away, much of his preparation has been done the old-fashioned way — logging kilometres on local Gippsland roads.
He is no stranger to extreme challenges.
Over the years, Dixon has completed a string of remarkable endurance feats, including a 1,000-kilometre run from Sydney to Melbourne to raise funds for TLC for Kids, and a 250-kilometre run from Melbourne to Stratford in support of Lifeline Gippsland.
He also completed a 300-kilometre run in 36 hours as part of the Helping Hands Running Festival, raising $80,000 for Free 3D Hands,
has competed in multiple 100-mile ultra-marathons, and covered 223 kilometres at the AIS 24 Hour Track Invitational.
Much of his motivation is personal. Dixon’s daughter, Gracie, was born with a limb difference — an experience that has helped shape his fundraising efforts and fuelled his determination to push his physical limits while supporting causes close to his family’s heart.
Being selected to represent Australia is a significant milestone.
However, unlike many other sports, ultra-distance running requires athletes to self-fund international competition.
Flights, accommodation, race entry, uniforms, nutrition and travel costs are covered by the athlete.
Dixon is aiming to raise about $5,000 to help offset the cost of competing in Japan.
He said wearing the green and gold would be a proud moment — not only for himself, but for his hometown.
Representing Australia on the international stage is an honour, he said, and he is equally proud to represent Stratford and the wider Gippsland community.
Community members wishing to support Dixon’s campaign can contribute to help him take on the 24-hour challenge in Japan later this month.
