By the time you’ve finished reading this, Locky Adams will probably have run a few more kilometres. The Aussie endurance athlete is on a mission—running 58 marathons in 58 days across all 50 U.S. states, plus Australia’s eight states and territories. It’s a brutal test of physical and mental endurance, but for Locky, it’s about something bigger: raising awareness for mental health.
“An Emotional Rollercoaster”
Locky admits the journey has been gruelling. “The legs have definitely been better,” he told The Today Show. “It’s sort of this emotional rollercoaster between complete exhaustion but excitement to get back to Australia and know that there’s only 17 left.” But no matter how battered his legs feel, he keeps pushing forward—because this is about more than personal achievement for him.
Inspired by the Best, Testing the Limits
The idea came from endurance legend James Lawrence, the “Iron Cowboy,” who completed 50 Ironman triathlons in 50 days across 50 states. Locky thought, why not add an Aussie twist? So, he took on the 58-marathon challenge, not just as a physical feat, but as a metaphor for the daily battles many people face with mental health.
And it hasn’t been easy. “I can see why no one has ever done it in winter before,” he said, laughing. “It’s brutally cold, it’s not that fun. My brother-in-law, who’s been driving, has had a few ice slides.” Snow, ice, and exhaustion aside, Locky and his team keep pushing forward.
Running for Mental Health Awareness
At the heart of this challenge is a mission: raising awareness and funds for the Mental Awareness Foundation. The organization works to help people struggling with mental health issues and to encourage open conversations. “We know that there’ll be people all around the world who can relate to this,” Locky explained. “We’ve got to meet so many incredible people along the way and hear their stories—how this has inspired them to reconnect with friends, run their own 5K, or just get involved in their community.”
This challenge isn’t just about running—it’s about resilience, about showing up every day, even when you don’t want to. That’s a lesson for anyone, whether you’re training for a marathon or just trying to get through a tough day.
The Final Push
Locky’s final marathon will take place in Sydney on March 13, where he’s inviting anyone and everyone to join him. “I’d love to see you guys out at Sydney if you fancy a run at the Opera House,” he said. Whether it’s a full marathon or just a few meters, the point is to get involved.
Locky’s journey proves that endurance isn’t just about muscles—it’s about mindset. And if he can push through 58 marathons, what’s stopping the rest of us from lacing up our running shoes and taking that first step?
For more on Locky’s mission and how to support mental health, visit Mental Awareness Foundation.
