Accomplished marathon runner Thomas O’Connor will compete in ‘the world’s toughest foot race’ in California next month to help raise funds for the National Breast Cancer Research Institute.
The Badwater135 Ultramarathon is 135 miles long, and begins at Death Valley, 282 feet below sea level.
The runners will cross two mountain ranges and finish with a climb toward Mount Whitney at 8,000 feet.
And if that wasn’t hard enough, Thomas will also have to withstand sweltering average daytime temperatures of 54 degrees.
Having recently completed his 100th marathon, he had to successfully complete a minimum of three 100 miles races before he could even apply to take part in this event.
Hailing from Caherush, Co. Clare, but now working and living in Galway, Thomas knows only too well the impact cancer can have on a family, having lost his eldest sister, Dorothy to cancer 17 years ago.
By coincidence, Dorothy’s anniversary falls on the start of the event, July 4, so Thomas is also honouring her memory while helping to support the work of National Breast Cancer Research Institute, based at the Lambe Institute, University of Galway.
The institute-funded researchers are currently working on major national and international projects to improve the diagnosis and treatment for those diagnosed with breast cancer, where current statistics show that one in seven Irish women will develop breast cancer before they reach the age of 75.
As a radiographer at Blackrock Health Galway Clinic, Thomas understands the importance of research in improving the outcomes for patients.
“The National Breast Cancer Research Institute is a world class facility, based locally but with a far wider impact,” he said.
“It goes about the challenge of understanding cancer as a disease, how it affects us individually and how we respond differently to treatments so that treatments can be tailored specifically for our needs.”
Thomas said that it is truly amazing the wonderful work that goes on there quietly in the background that makes a difference when we need it.
“And the reality is that like my family, and most families I know, we need the knowledge and outcomes of cancer research more than ever.”
Along with his running buddy Ray O’Connar, who was Thomas’ inspiration for taking part, a strong, dedicated support team is also important to help overcome any challenges on the way and achieve success.
Thomas’ crew is led by his sister Miriam, who is rapidly heading toward her 100th marathon herself, his partner Jordan, also a successful marathoner, and his late sister Dorothy’s son, Kevin – who when invited to join his crew, immediately said ‘yes’ and that ‘it sounds like fun’.
“And that is exactly what I need in a crew member; someone to remind me to enjoy myself when the going gets tough and to take in this unique experience that I’m privileged to be a part of,” said Thomas.
To find out more and to see how you can support Thomas and the National Breast Cancer Research Institute, go to: www.BreastCancerResearch.ie/ThomasOConnor
