Marathon Mitch reaches Cobar milestone in epic charity run

Determined runner Mitch McKenny has reached Cobar right on schedule, marking a significant milestone in his extraordinary 1,100-kilometre journey from Broken Hill to Newcastle to raise funds for Angelman syndrome research.

The father-of-one, who has earned the nickname "Marathon Mitch," arrived in Cobar on Sunday September 1 as planned, eleven days into his epic 29-day fundraising challenge for baby Huxley Maguire.

McKenny was inspired to undertake the mammoth run after his close friends Jess and Bree Maguire's son Huxley was diagnosed with Angelman syndrome at just four months old. The rare neurological condition affects development and can cause seizures, speech impairment, and movement difficulties.

"Seeing what Jess and Bree are going through, and knowing there are families across Australia facing the same challenges, I knew I had to do something significant," McKenney said as he prepared to leave Cobar for the next leg of his journey.

The timing of his Cobar stopover coincided with the town's Running on Empty Festival, creating an unexpected but perfect opportunity for locals to show their support for the cause. Community members gathered to cheer McKenny on, with some joining him for sections of his run through town.

Local Cobar resident Sarah Thompson, who walked alongside Mitch for several kilometres, said the community was inspired by his determination.

"To see someone push themselves to this limit for a mate's kid – that's the spirit of the outback right there," she said.

McKenny's fundraising effort, dubbed "Huxley's Heroes," aims to raise over $150,000 for Fast Australia, a charity supporting research into Angelman syndrome and other rare genetic conditions. All donations over $2 are tax deductible.

Since departing Broken Hill on August 22, McKenney has been maintaining an impressive pace, covering approximately 38 kilometres each day despite challenging weather conditions and the physical toll of running on bitumen for extended periods.

The route takes him through some of NSW's most iconic outback towns, with upcoming stops including Nyngan on 5 September and Dubbo on 9 September, before winding through regional communities toward his final destination in Newcastle on 19 September.

Local businesses and communities along the route have rallied behind the cause, offering accommodation, meals, and encouragement to keep McKenny motivated during the gruelling challenge.

"The support from every town has been incredible," McKenny said. "People are coming out to run with me, walk their dogs alongside me, even ride horses with me for a bit. It's not just my run anymore – it's become a community effort for Huxley and all the families dealing with Angelman syndrome."

Fast Australia CEO praised McKenny's efforts, noting that funds raised will contribute directly to research aimed at finding treatments and ultimately a cure for the condition that affects approximately one in 15,000 births.

For those wanting to support Marathon Mitch, donations can be made via the QR code on promotional materials or by contacting [email protected]. Community members in upcoming towns are encouraged to follow the "Move for a Cure" Facebook and Instagram pages for run-in times and opportunities to show support.

McKenny's next major stop is Nyngan on September 5, where locals are already planning a community welcome for the determined runner who's proving that mateship and determination can move mountains – one kilometre at a time.