Story
About Gary
As a proud father of neurodiverse children, I’m taking on the challenge of a Backyard Ultra—not just to test my own physical and mental limits, but to champion a cause that’s deeply personal. I’m running to raise awareness and vital funds for Belmont Primary School and Friends at Belmont, our incredible PTA that works tirelessly to support every child’s learning journey.
This isn’t just a race—it’s a statement. A statement that every child deserves to be understood, included, and empowered, no matter how they experience the world. Belmont is a community that embraces diversity and difference, and through this effort, I hope to help provide the resources and opportunities our students need to thrive—especially those whose paths may be less typical, but no less extraordinary.
Every lap I complete is for the children who face challenges with courage, for the teachers and families who believe in them, and for a school that truly lives its values. Together, we go the distance.
About Backyard Ultra
https://www.gertlushevents.co.uk/the-breakheart-backyard-ultra
The Breakheart Backyard Ultra is a twist on a ‘traditional’ ultra marathon race. Competitors must run the distance of 6706 metres (4.167 miles) in less than one hour. Competitors will then continue to run this same distance every hour, on the hour until there is only one runner standing. At the end of each lap any time remaining can be used in any way the competitor chooses, typically recovering and refuelling ready for the next hour’s yard. Runners will get a 3, 2 and 1 min warning as the start of each yard approaches. Any runner not in the starting corral at the start of the hour will not be permitted to commence that yard (THIS IS NON NEGOTIABLE). Any runner that fails to complete the yard in the hour will be withdrawn from the race (THIS IS NON NEGOTIABLE). The race is open ended and will finish when there is only one person remaining to step up to the line TO BE CROWNED WINNER!
About Belmont
Belmont School is more than just a place for academic learning; it serves as an extension of a family, fostering a deep sense of community that supports not only students but also their parents and caregivers. The school prioritizes building strong relationships, creating an inclusive environment where families feel welcomed, valued, and involved. Through regular communication, workshops, and events, Belmont actively engages parents, ensuring they have the resources and support they need to nurture their children's development both academically and emotionally. By treating every family as a partner in the educational journey, Belmont helps create a cohesive support system that extends beyond the classroom, making it a true community where everyone thrives together.