LOCAL marathon runner Clay Dawson has once again defied the limits of endurance, setting a new course record at the Toogoolawah Dusk Till Dawn ultra-marathon.
Running an astonishing 133 kilometres in 12 hours, Dawson completed the gruelling challenge without a dedicated support crew.
His decision to take on the race was as spontaneous as it was impressive.
“My good mate Peter randomly suggested we run a 12-hour ultra,” Dawson said.
“Commonsense would suggest training and preparation are key for these events – but that’s not really my style.”
Despite his casual approach, his record-breaking feat adds to an already remarkable running career.
In November, he completed his longest-ever distance, running 250km over three days in the Trail to Triumph from Moranbah to Mackay.
His relentless pursuit of endurance challenges has some questioning his sanity – something he doesn’t entirely disagree with.
“I used to think I was completely sane, but I can’t really argue any more,” he joked.
A teacher by profession, Dawson is a decorated competitor.
He won the Australian 100km title in 2019 and 2021 and boasts an impressive marathon record.
In 2017, he won three marathons in seven weeks – the Sunshine Coast, Brisbane, and Gold Coast Marathons – securing the Australian Masters title with a personal best of 2 hours and 26 minutes.
Beyond marathons, Dawson has won the Ipswich Mile Gift, regularly competes in 10km events like Ipswich Park2Park, and even joins local 5km park runs.
His endurance extends to charity efforts, including the 96km Kokoda Challenge with his school team, raising thousands for charity.
Ipswich Athletics President Vic Pascoe said Dawson was a mentor for distance runners, describing his achievements as “almost unbelievable”.
“To all distance runners, Clay is remarkable in what he does, but best of all, he is an inspiration to everyone involved with the NANCI (Naturally Athletically Nurtured Culturally in Ipswich) group,” Mr Pascoe said.
