JOIN US IN THE RACE TO BEAT DIPG
The Ox is our way of honouring Frankie Fitzgerald, a vibrant, wild and free spirit who taught us to live wholeheartedly, find joy in the little things and make every moment count.
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More than a run, it’s a show of strength, endurance and unity. Over 24 hours, we’ll cover 100km together to raise funds for those facing the unimaginable effects of DIPG - an aggressive and incurable childhood brain cancer.
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DIPG is relentless. But so are we.
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The Ox is a test of body and spirit, but above all, it’s a celebration of life, love and the power of community. It’s about showing up for one another, pushing beyond what we thought possible and turning heartbreak into hope.
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Not everyone can run, but The OX is for everyone. You can cheer, volunteer, donate or simply show up and be part of something bigger than yourself.
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Because this is what Frankie continues to teach us: to live fully, love fiercely and never underestimate what we can do together.
HOW IT WORKS
4.2km every hour, on the hour, for 24 hours, with 100km as the ultimate goal. You can enter solo or as a team of two or four, with teams working together to keep a runner on the track for every lap.
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The challenge begins at 9am on Saturday 9 October 2027 with the final lap at 8am on Sunday 10 October.
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You set your own pace, with an hour to complete each 4.2km lap before heading out again or, if you're part of a team, tagging in your next runner.
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Every participant must register and purchase a ticket. Once registered, you can create or join a team and start fundraising for RUN DIPG.
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One final year. One community.
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Entries open May 2027.
WHY RUN DIPG?
We run for the kids who can’t. DIPG (Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma) and DMG are among the most devastating childhood brain cancers - responsible for 1 in 5 childhood deaths caused by disease. Most often diagnosed in children aged 6 to 7, these aggressive tumours have a median life expectancy of just 9–11 months. There are currently no effective treatments, no cure and limited awareness or funding.
That’s why we’re raising money for Run DIPG, an Australian charity dedicated to improving outcomes for children and families affected by these diseases through research, awareness and support.
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Find out more here.
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FRANKIE
The beloved daughter of our friends and local Lennox family, Frankie sadly passed away on October 16, 2022 at just 9 years old.
Frankie’s time in this life was cut short due to an incurable brain tumour, known as Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG). Frankie lived her final weeks looking over the ocean and taking walks to her lagoon and Magic Tree, spotting turtles and having visits from her wild pet magpies. She never lost her sense of adventure, her personality or intelligence.
In her final days, she was able to feel the ocean wash over her body which brought her great joy and peace. A warrior to the end, The Ox is in honour of a strong, brave, inspiring little girl - and it’s our way of leaning into her strength to make a difference. We are proud to have known her and to be running for her.
GET INVOLVED 2027
In 2023, we raised over $140,000 for Run DIPG, $240,000 in 2024, $260,000 in 2025 and donations in 2026 are currently at $275,000.
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Through the tireless efforts of RUN DIPG, every day and every dollar helps to improve outcomes for patients, families and communities. Whether you’re a runner, a supporter or a sponsor, we’ve got a bunch of ways for you to get involved.
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To volunteer over the course of the 24 hours in 2027 please register your interest here.
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If you are a business interested in sponsorship, partnership or brand opportunities, expressions of interest for 2027 are now open here.
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For partnership opportunities, please contact Kelly Müller | hello@kellymuller.com
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For general enquiries, contact jo.bennett@rundipg.org
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Follow us at @lennoxrunners and @the_ox_100k for updates.
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