Half-way point for charity runner

The University of Queensland student Monty Summers may be running half way across Queensland with 14 friends, but it is other people’s generosity that has him impressed.

Mr Summers has reached the half-way mark in his 1200km run from Brisbane to Longreach, reaching Roma on Sunday afternoon.

The run aims to raise awareness and funds for the Leukaemia Foundation and AEIOU: Children with Autism.

So far, the 20-year-old Human Movements and Psychology student has raised more than $40,000 and spoken to school groups and community gatherings in towns along the way, telling them about his own battle with lymphoblastic leukaemia while still in high school.

Mr Summers said people in the towns were very welcoming and eager to help his fundraising efforts.

“I tell them a bit of my story. At the schools I go running around the oval with the students,’’ he said.

“For the kids it is someone to look up to. A couple of young guys are running all that way.”

Towns such as Taroon and Yuleba, with a combined population of less than 1000 people, had chipped in with about $2000.

Schools were holding free-dress days and contributing up to $500.

“We have had massive support. It is unbelievable. These people work so hard and give so much,’’ Mr Summer said.

“It is a morale boost to see that. It is an inspiration to me, to see people so willing to give.”

The group had endured frosty mornings and was coping with blisters, sprained ankles and tired leg muscles, but Mr Summers said there was absolute determination to reach the finish.

“We have got ourselves this far. We are holding up pretty well.

“Most of us are athletes and we have a good understanding of what needs to be done. We know how to look after ourselves.

“We are definitely going to get there.”

The group is running between 50km and 127km between towns each day and is due to arrive at Longreach on July 26.

Visit www.citytolongreach.com.au

Media: Erik de Wit at UQ Communications (07 3346 7086)