Ryan Mathews raised $17,000 for cancer research. 65087 Picture: EMILY LANE
By Vanessa Chircop
RYAN Mathews has been dubbed the Forest Gump of Hobsons Bay after running a whopping 800 kilometres to raise money for cancer research.
The Williamstown resident was presented with a certificate of achievement last week, for his amazing run from Adelaide to Williamstown earlier this year.
Ryan, with the help of his housemate Michael Sneddon, launched The Long Road Ahead “help us, help them” campaign, which raised $17,000 for prostate and breast cancer research.
Ryan ran the 800 kilometres in 12 days with a small support crew including Michael on the road with him.
Speaking to Star in May, Ryan said he wanted to use his running as a way to help people.
At last week’s council meeting the council presented him with the award.
Councillor Peter Hemphill said Ryan had ran the equivalent of two marathons a day for the cause.
“A fantastic effort from a young guy who comes from Williamstown,” he said.
“A great service to his community.”
Cr Angela Altair said she saluted both Ryan, Michael and other supporters for their hard work.
“It just makes you very proud to know what a terrific bunch of young people we have in our city,” she said.
The young runner hopes to do the run again but next time said he wouldn’t do it all on his own.
