By Isabelle Bambach

Scott Eastburn and his family have directly been affected by cancer over the years and now the Canberra local has set himself a personal challenge of running 20 endurance events this year – 14 being marathons including the Gold Coast Airport Marathon – all in a bid to help fight the disease.

The challenge, which Scott has dubbed ‘20:14 in 2014’, surfaced two years ago while at the forefront of a fundraising challenge for a student at his school needing prosthetic legs – inspiring him to do more.

The physical education teacher, who is hoping to raise $14,000+ for the Australian Cancer Research Foundation, said he promised himself he would find a way to contribute to the cause several years ago, with the 20:14 in 2014 challenge now being the perfect opportunity.

“In Australia, one in three men and one in four women will be directly affected by cancer before the age of 75. We should all try [to] do something about this,” Scott said.

“I am not a doctor so I can’t help in that way to cure cancer, but I can try to inspire others to donate via my actions, so that could be my calling to help bring a cure for cancer one step closer.”

Despite having only previously participated in one marathon in 2010, Scott has already completed four marathons this year in Hobart, Wangaratta, London and Paris.

Though Scott has enjoyed and learnt from each marathon so far, he is particularly excited about the Gold Coast Airport Marathon.

“I have heard great things about this event. People really seem to enjoy this run,” Scott said.

“It’s my 32^nd birthday on Sunday 6 July, so what better way than a ‘relaxing’ run along the Gold Coast coastline to celebrate.

“I have a number of mates running this event with me too. It will be a nice weekend to share something special with them.”

While Scott is now feeling more confident and fit for the rest of his challenge, he said it hasn’t been without hard work and dedication.

“Of course before the challenge started I was nervous, only running one marathon before 2014 isn’t the best but I believe this adds to the challenge,” Scott said.

“My recovery time between events is varied. I had a minor foot problem throughout March but it’s fine now.

“As for a strategy, do the hard work in training, plan for the worst and hope for the best.”

If you would like to follow or support Scott in his ‘20:14 in 2014’ challenge, visit his website www.livefitlivelife.com.au.

The Gold Coast Airport Marathon will be held on Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 July in one of the most popular holiday destinations in the world in Queensland, Australia.

It is set to attract more than 30,000 participants of all ages and abilities across a number of events including the Gold Coast Airport Marathon, Wheelchair Marathon, ASICS Half Marathon, Wheelchair 15km, Southern Cross University 10km Run, Suncorp Bank 5.7km Challenge and Junior Dash 4km & 2km races.

For more information visit www.goldcoastmarathon.com.au