75-Year-Old ‘Dasher’ Runs 20th Marathon to Support Young Australians’ Mental Health
On November 1st, 75-year-old Daryl ‘Dasher’ Allen will lace up for his 20th marathon, his first in nine years, to raise vital funds for Youth Insearch, a national charity helping young people heal from trauma and improve their mental health through peer-led support programs.
Daryl first got involved with Youth Insearch over three decades ago. “One night many years ago... I arrived home from work after a couple of beers and turned on the telly to see a segment on Youth Insearch,” he recalls. “I thought, I’m going to do something about that. I always think I’m going to do something and I don’t. This time I’m actually going to do something.”
Since then, Daryl has completed countless endurance events in support of Youth Insearch, including becoming the oldest competitor to finish Ultraman Australia in 2016, raising over $65,000.
Now, Daryl will be running the full 42.2 kilometre Huskisson Marathon in Jervis Bay, determined to cross the finish line and continue supporting young people in need.
“From the first time I saw what was happening with those young people at that camp on television... it was extraordinarily moving,” he says. “I found it really emotional. And the program works. I’m a total believer in it.”
When asked what motivates him to keep running after all these years, Daryl laughs: “Every time I’ve run a marathon, I swear I’m never doing another one. But here we go again.” He swears that training for a marathon at 75 is no different to training at 35 or 45, “It’s just slower.”
Despite his modesty, Daryl hopes his efforts inspire others: “A lot of my friends just shake their heads when I say I’m running a marathon. But hopefully it shows that if there’s anything you want to do at any time in your life, have a go. You’ll give yourself a surprise.”
Youth Insearch CEO Stephen Lewin says Daryl’s dedication has profoundly influenced both the organisation and the young people it supports. “For more than 30 years, Daryl has been part of the Youth Insearch story. His energy, commitment and heart have inspired both young people and our team. His latest challenge is another incredible example of his belief in what’s possible.”
Support Daryl’s marathon and help change young lives at daryl.raiselysite.com/
For media enquiries, please contact:
Susan Sciffer
0439 800 388
susan.sciffer@youthinsearch.org.au
Jessica Wilson
0499 502 215
jessica.wilson@youthinsearch.org.au
