For Lachy, For a Cure: Taking on the Great Wall Marathon
On 17 May 2025—just 30 days from now—I’ll be attempting something utterly ridiculous: running the Great Wall of China Marathon. Why? Because sometimes the best way to honor someone you love is to push yourself beyond the limits you once thought possible.
A Tribute to Lachlan “Lachy” Kean
Lachy was many things: a friend, a larrikin, and a fierce warrior against the unthinkable challenges life threw at him. Taken far too soon by bowel cancer at just 37, Lachy never had the chance to train for the toughest race of his life. He faced his diagnosis head-on, finding every ounce of strength and positivity to fight for more time with the people he loved.
Though he would’ve had a great laugh at the thought of me tackling steep stone steps and ancient watchtowers without any training, this run isn’t just for the chuckle—it's for the cause.
Why the Great Wall Marathon?
The Great Wall Marathon is one of the world’s most grueling footraces: over 5,000 stone steps, relentless ascents, and breathtaking scenery. It’s a challenge that mirrors the uphill battles so many face when confronting cancer. Every steep climb will remind me of Lachy’s courage; every uneven step will echo the hardship he bore with silent strength.
Fighting Bowel Cancer
Bowel cancer is the deadliest cancer in Australia and the seventh leading cause of death among young people. Yet, with awareness and research, countless lives could be saved. That’s why I’m raising funds for the Lachlan Kean Foundation Pty Ltd—so that other families might find hope, early detection, and better treatments.
To date, we’ve raised $27,843.04. Our goal? $30,000 in 30 days.
Donate Here
The 30-Day Countdown & Training Plan
With just a month to prepare, I’ve leaned on expert guidance to build a schedule that respects my back issues and beginner status. Here’s the roadmap:
Week 1: Safely Increase Distance
Mon: Rest or physio-prescribed mobility/core work
Tue: 6–8 km easy run
Wed: Rest
Thu: 8–10 km steady (2 km at marathon pace if comfortable)
Fri: Rest or light cross-training
Sat: 4–6 km easy jog
Sun: Long run 18–20 km (slow & steady)
Week 2: Peak Volume Safely
Mon: Rest or mobility/core
Tue: 6–8 km easy
Wed: Strength/mobility session
Thu: 10–12 km (3–4 km at marathon pace)
Fri: Rest
Sat: 5–6 km jog
Sun: Long run 22–24 km
Week 3: Final Long Run & Fuel Test
Mon: Rest
Tue: 6–8 km easy
Wed: Strength/core
Thu: 8–10 km easy (+ strides if fresh)
Fri: Rest
Sat: 4–6 km jog
Sun: Long run 26–28 km (super easy)
Week 4: Taper & Sharpen
Mon: Rest
Tue: 5–6 km easy
Wed: Rest or gentle mobility
Thu: 3–4 km easy with pickups
Fri: Rest
Sat: 2–3 km shake-out jog or rest
Sun: Race Day!
Pacing & Nutrition Tips
Start Conservatively: First 5K at least 30 seconds/km slower than goal pace.
Run-Walk Strategy: Consider intervals (e.g., 9 min run, 1 min walk).
Split the Race: 0–10K to settle in; 10–20K find your rhythm; 20–30K push through; 30–42K take it "one kilometre at a time."
Day Before: Carb-rich dinner (rice, pasta) and 500–750 mL fluids.
Breakfast: 3 hours pre-race—toast and peanut butter, banana, oatmeal.
During Race: Water every 15–20 mins, gel or chew every 45 mins, aiming for 60–90 g carbs/hour.
How You Can Help
Donate: Every dollar brings us closer to better research and support services.
Share: Post this fundraiser on social media using #RunForLachy.
Cheer: Virtual high-fives and words of encouragement fuel the soul.
Lachy didn’t choose his challenge, but he met it head-on. Now, I’m taking on mine—one step, one kilometre, one stone stair at a time.
For Lachy. For a cure. Let’s do this.
Help us reach $30,000 in 30 days. Donate Now & Share: https://shoutforgood.com/fundraisers/scottbiffingreatwall
Scott Biffin Great Wall Marathon Runner Lachlan Kean Foundation Pty Ltd