Johnathan Thurston, the decorated former NRL player, is running a marathon as part of the Indigenous Marathon Project. On 2025, he will join 12 First Nations men and women in the New York City Marathon.
What is the Indigenous Marathon Project?
The project, led by Robert de Castella, aims to promote the strength and resilience of First Nations young people through marathon running.
How did Johnathan Thurston get involved?
Thurston, who initially baulked at the prospect of running solo, drew inspiration from the 2025 squad, a diverse group of people aged 18-30.
What does the project entail?
The project encompasses leadership, mental health, first aid, public speaking, and media training, with 167 First Nations people having graduated from the course since 2010.
Johnathan Thurston wrote his "why" on the back of his hand for motivation, with the initials of his kids and wife. He said running a marathon is one of the toughest things he's done, mentally and physically.
The 2025 squad includes a Townsville DJ, a young man from Thursday Island, a mum from Karratha, a social media influencer from Darwin, and a ranger from the Gulf of Carpentaria. They form a bond, creating a safe space for them to open up and seek help.
Robert de Castella wants the squad to feel the buzz of New York, especially during the "42-kilometre street party", which can have an enormous impact. The project has grown into a much broader program since its inception in 2010.
High-profile alumni include Torres Shire Council Mayor Elsie Seriat and Charlie Maher, the first Indigenous man to complete all seven major world marathons. Thurston said the squad can do anything they put their mind to, with some strong-minded people in the squad.
The documentary *The Long Run* captures every step of the journey of the 2025 squad, led by ambassadors Johnathan Thurston and Lance "Buddy" Franklin. The project fuels pride and self-worth, giving the squad the courage to stand up and take on big issues, making a significant contribution to their community.
Johnathan Thurston's involvement in the project is a testament to his commitment to promoting the strength and resilience of First Nations young people. He believes that running a marathon is a wonderful demonstration of the capacity of young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders.
The Indigenous Marathon Project has been running since 2010, with other program ambassadors including Cathy Freeman, Olympic boxer Brad Hore, and youth worker and reality TV star Brooke Blurton. The project has made a significant impact on the lives of the participants, providing them with the skills and confidence to make a difference in their communities.