Cerebral Palsy League Ambassador

Competing in his 8th Ironman to date, Mark finished the race with a time of 11:53:10. Despite having knee complications prior to the race, Mark completed the tough endurance event with all but a glowing smile.

“The moment you cross that line is indescribable, especially knowing how hard you’ve worked in the lead up juggling 6 hour training sessions a day with work and family commitments make the success that little bit sweeter”.

Mark said that until you are running the race yourself and nearing the finish line, it’s difficult to imagine how great it feels running to make a difference. "Seeing young Liam straight after the race gives me a sense of pride and an honour to be part of this great team"

We definitely see where you are coming from Mark, congratulations again.

Multiple Ironman Champion

With over 10 years experience competing in Ironman events, Belinda was not one to shy away from the Ironman Asia Pacific Championship. Coming in at a notable 10th place, Belinda has consistently dominated the Australian and international circuit for years.

Belinda said that being able to give back to the community through her sport thanks to Food Spectrum’s Ironman Charity Challenge is an amazing feeling.

“It’s a dream doing what I love everyday and then having that added bonus of being able to lend a helping hand at the same time is something really extraordinary”.

“I’m really excited to be working with Food Spectrum in the future, especially being surrounded left, right and center by such motivating and inspiring people like Liam”.

Finishing with a time of 9:26:21, Belinda has many more Ironman’s in front of her and we are so excited to be working with her again soon!

International Ironman Champion

Coming in at an amazing 2nd place in the Ironman Charity Challenge, Cameron Brown was close to claiming victory, running alongside 1st place winner and 3 times world champion Craig Alexander for a good portion of the way.

Naming Food Spectrum ambassador Liam Siltala as his source of inspiration during the race when times got tough, Cameron said he pushed through the pain, crossing the line in just 8:00:12 hours.

“I loved the point-to-point run of the course, it was just like doing the New York Marathon in some ways, although looking down the road to the finish line was sometimes a little heartbreaking”.

“It feels fantastic to be able to help raise so much money for kids with disabilities and I’m sure Belinda would have said something similar, but it’s so great doing what you love and running for a great cause”.

“In terms of being ‘race ready’ I felt I was in great form as I’m always really fit at this time of year, especially since I had the New Zealand Ironman 3 weeks before. I was in good shape and ready to race hard”.

Cameron suggested that next year we make every athlete sign up to the Ironman Charity Challenge…not a bad idea. Thanks Cam for all your hard work with us!

International motivational speaker

US sales coach and motivational speaker Jack Daly, has completed a total of 9 Ironman races on 5 continents, and he’s booked 4 for this year already.

The positive atmosphere was an element that John pointed out as being a standout moment.

“I loved the whole experience, it was the best seeing Liam’s smile and the team’s positive attitude to running and raising money”.

“It’s such a nice thing knowing that through competing, we are doing so much more than just running for hours and hours. It’s all about getting more support and raising awareness so that we can bring greater joy to those children who have it tougher than we do.

Jack finished the Ironman Charity Challenge with a time of 13:56:45. Great work Jack!

Innovations Manager Food Spectrum

“Every hour of training was completely worth it and the 42 km run was something that I enjoyed thoroughly. It was the first full Ironman I had run and I kept expecting to hit the infamous ‘wall’ but it ended up being a wonderful eye-opening experience”.

“Running alongside world-class athletes was an experience in itself and I can’t wait to be involved in another Ironman Challenge.

“I am so proud that for one, I finished the race in 13:08:02 and two, knowing that I’ve been a part of improving the lives of kids with disabilities, providing them with the things they need to live more happy and fulfilling lives”.

Food Spectrum Charities Ambassador

14 year old Liam has cerebral palsy, but this didn’t deter him from taking a break from school and flying down to Melbourne with his dad Troy to rev up the Food Spectrum Charities team. Liam showed endless initiative and enthusiasm in Melbourne and inspired the team to do their best.

After receiving support from Food Spectrum Charities 2 years ago, Liam is a glowing testament to the difference that even small measures of support can make to improve the quality of life of a child with a disability.

Liam’s dad, Troy said that he has not been able to wipe the smile of Liam’s face since meeting Belinda and Cam and also mentioned this was Liam's first ever flight on a plane.

“Liam got to be in the VIP area handing out medals as the athletes crossed the finish line and even got to ‘high-five’ some of the competitors which was magical for him. But this trip was about supporting our team first and it was truly heart-warming when Mark and John were able to see Liam cheering them on as they finished the race”.

“Liam has come a long way since receiving help through Food Spectrum Charities two years ago. Once a shy boy, we now have a young man thriving with confidence”.

Troy and Liam both agree that their personal goals are to give other children the same opportunity and a greater lease on life. Liam, you are our true champion!