Challenge Time 00:00:00

24 Hours for ME

A challenge for me, Awareness for ME (Myalgic Encephalomyelitis)

Across the Continent

Cruising at 30,000 feet, the clock is ticking. Every minute counts towards the 24-hour limit.

Understanding ME/CFS

Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) is a serious, complex neuroimmune condition. It affects multiple body systems and can significantly reduce a person's ability to carry out everyday activities.

Source: mecfsSA.org.au, WHO

Sydney Arrival: Taxi to Bondi

Wheels down in Sydney. A quick taxi ride to the iconic Bondi Beach, the starting line of our 80km run.

Bondi Beach: The Run Commences

The ultra begins! 80 kilometers of stunning Sydney coastline await.

Iconic Views:
Opera House & Harbour Bridge

Pushing through, with Sydney's landmarks as a backdrop. The physical and mental challenge intensifies.

The Hallmark: PEM

A core feature of ME/CFS is Post-Exertional Malaise (PEM). This means even minimal physical, mental, or emotional effort can trigger a severe worsening of symptoms, often delayed by 12-48 hours and lasting for days or weeks.

Source: CDC, Emerge Australia

Manly Finish Line!

80km conquered! A moment of relief, but the clock doesn't stop. Next up: the race back to the airport.

Impact & Prevalence

ME/CFS can be severely disabling. Around 25% of people with ME/CFS are housebound or bedbound at some point. It's estimated that 100,000 to 250,000 Australians live with the condition, though many remain undiagnosed.

Source: CDC, Emerge Australia

Back to Sydney Airport

Another taxi dash. Every minute is crucial to make the flight back to Perth.

Homeward Bound: Flight to Perth

Airborne again, heading west. Exhaustion sets in, but the 24-hour goal is in sight.

Diagnosis & Management

Currently, there's no single diagnostic test for ME/CFS, making diagnosis challenging. There is also no approved cure. Management focuses on treating symptoms, avoiding PEM triggers through pacing, and improving quality of life.

Source: CDC, NHMRC

Challenge Complete: Perth Landing!

Back on home soil, within the 24-hour limit. An incredible journey for an important cause.

A Moment of Exhaustion vs. A Lifetime Reality

When we finish this 24-hour challenge, we'll be utterly exhausted. Our bodies will ache, our minds will be foggy, and every movement will likely be an effort. We'll crave rest, and thankfully, with a good night's sleep and a day or two of recovery, we'll gradually return to our normal energy levels, ready to train for the next adventure.

But for so many people living with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME/CFS), that profound, debilitating exhaustion isn't temporary. It doesn't lift with a good night's sleep. The "fog," the pain, the inability to do simple daily tasks – that can be their constant reality, every single day.

They don't have the luxury of "recovering" back to a baseline of health after exertion. For them, even minimal activity can trigger Post-Exertional Malaise (PEM), a crushing relapse of symptoms that can last for days, weeks, or even longer. Imagine feeling how we will feel at the end of our 24-hour ordeal, but that's how you feel much of the time, without an end in sight.

This is why we run. This is why awareness and research are so vital.

The Challenge Details

Bondi to Manly Route Map

In September 2025, Glen Smetherham and Alexis Oosterhoff will undertake this demanding test of endurance and logistics.

The core components are:

  • Fly: Perth to Sydney.
  • Run: The 80 km Bondi to Manly course.
  • Return: Sydney to Perth.

All within a strict 24-hour timeframe.

Glen and Alexis are personally covering all costs associated with their travel and participation.

Why We're Doing This: Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME)

National Centre for Neuroimmunology and Emerging Diseases (NCNED) - Griffith University

"24 Hours for ME" carries a dual significance: firstly, to cast a spotlight on Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME)/CFS, a complex and debilitating neuroimmune condition. Secondly, it champions the essential nature of personal 'me' time – recognizing that by nurturing our own well-being and resilience through self-care, we strengthen our capacity to provide care and support to those in our lives who need it most.

This project is deeply personal for Glen, whose family has been directly affected by ME. By pushing our boundaries, we aim to shine a light on the struggles of those with ME and the need for research and understanding.

Our Fundraising Goals:

Our primary goal is to maximize funds for ME research. To help share this story through the documentary, up to $5,000 of initial funds will cover essential post-production and gear costs. While modest for a documentary, this ensures a quality film for wider impact. Any portion of this $5,000 not used, and all funds raised beyond it, go directly to the National Centre for Neuroimmunology and Emerging Diseases (NCNED).

The Team

Glen Smetherham

Glen Smetherham

Endurance Athlete | Running Coach | Project Lead

Glen is an experienced ultrarunner and an AURTA Level 1 Endorsed Running Coach based in Perth, WA. He is driven by the personal connection to the ME cause and a passion for pushing endurance limits.

Life Member of Ultra Series Australia.

Alexis Oosterhoff

Alexis Oosterhoff

Endurance Athlete | Friend

Alexis is a dedicated ultrarunner and friend joining Glen on this demanding challenge, bringing his own endurance experience and commitment to the cause.

Life Member of Ultra Series Australia.

Our Valued Sponsors

Interested in becoming a sponsor? Get in touch!

A Heartfelt Thank You

This entire project, from the demanding challenge to the creation of the documentary, is only possible through incredible support. We extend our deepest gratitude to our official sponsors: ASICS Australia for their footwear, Ultra Series WA for their unwavering community backing, and Tribe & Trail for their long-standing support, which has also personally assisted Glen's daughter, Lily.

To every single person who donates to help us fund ME research through NCNED and bring this documentary to life, and to everyone who shares our message and helps raise awareness – thank you. Your belief in this cause fuels our every step.

Follow the Journey