In a phenomenal display of resilience and heart, 12-year-old Billy Isaacs became a world record holder as the youngest person to complete a 100-mile (160km) run in under 30 hours at Mingara Athletics Track on May 24-25.
Billy’s effort wasn’t just for the record books — he ran to raise funds for Central Coast Kids in Need, a local charity which helps seriously and terminally ill children and their families with the costs of accessing life-saving medical care.
So far, more than $20,000 has been raised, with donations still flowing in.
Billy said it was the toughest challenge he’s been through, but every lap was worth it to raise money for children who are going through a tougher challenge.
“My feet are sore, but I had to keep pushing on; the money raised helps pay for accommodation and treatment for the families,” he said.
“The struggle I went through is nothing; a big thank you to everyone who supported me through this and everyone who stayed all night.”
Billy’s father Cameron Isaacs said it was a “massive two days” for the Lisarow High School student.
“Sunday was brutal; I didn’t think we were going to do it but 40km out he just pulled another trigger,” Isaacs said.
“He was running a five-kilometre pace with 10km to go; it was absolutely brilliant.
“I couldn’t keep up – we’ve trained so hard for this and he got the job done.”
The challenge took everything Billy had — physically, mentally, and emotionally.
Through fatigue, pain, and testing times across nearly 30 hours of continuous movement, he pushed on, fuelled by purpose and powered by incredible community support.
Central Coast Kids in Need (CCKIN) Treasurer Rhonda Doyle said the small charity supports sick children, paying for travel, accommodation, petrol, parking and tolls involved in getting them to medical appointments and setting them up with pharmacy accounts if they come home on high-cost medications.
“He’s just an amazing young man, and very inspirational and he’s got such a beautiful soul,” she said of Billy.
CCKIN Secretary Lorraine Churchill said the response from the community donating or supporting on the day, or running a lap with Billy, had been overwhelming.
Local icons and leaders turned up to walk or run alongside him, including ultramarathon legend Pat Farmer, Mariners coach Mark Jackson, staff from Triple M Central Coast, Member for The Entrance David Mehan and Central Coast Councillor Trent McWaide.
Pat Farmer joined Billy during the night, offering his support and guiding him through the challenging hours.
“Billy ran 160km and started at 10am on Saturday morning,” Farmer said.
“He’s inspired me; if anyone can spare a dollar or two, please donate to this great cause.”
In the final hours, Billy received a message of encouragement from his hero, ultramarathon Ned Brockmann, who lifted his spirits for the final push and brought tears of joy to his eyes.
“I know you are almost finished; you’re absolutely incredible you inspire the hell out of me – to be that young and doing what you’re doing is absolutely exceptional,” Brockman told the pre-teen.
Billy’s record-breaking run has not only cemented his place in history, but united a community around something truly meaningful.
His story is a reminder of what can be achieved with heart, purpose — and the support of many.
Donations are still open at: cckin.com.au/donate (Reference: Billy).
Skaie Hull
