From Darkness to the Icy Finish Line

For years, I lived a life shadowed by poor decisions. Submerged in a world of excessive alcohol and drugs, I was losing myself. But then came the realization that this path led nowhere fulfilling. It was a wake-up call, a moment of introspection that prompted a radical change. And in that moment of clarity, I found my challenge: the coldest marathons on Earth, a marathon in Antarctica.

 

 

Meet Alex Cleary, a 26-year-old electrician from Mount Isa, Queensland, working underground in the mines of Africa. His routine was grueling: waking up at three in the morning, enduring 12-hour shifts, and then running laps around a one-kilometer loop before collapsing into sleep, only to repeat it all the next day. This relentless cycle was broken by inspiration from a friend who had lost significant weight through running. It led Alex to introspection and the decision to turn his life around.

 

The Antarctic Challenge

Without prior marathon experience, Alex took on the Antarctic Marathon. Training in Africa, with no opportunity for acclimatization to the cold or terrain, meant that his preparation was purely mental. His philosophy was simple: if he could endure the physical and mental demands of his work and post-work runs, he could face whatever Antarctica threw at him.

In Antarctica, the conditions were extreme. Alex participated in the marathon at Union Glacier Camp, where the race comprised four loops of 10.25 kilometers each, with harsh winds and temperatures plummeting to -25°C. Yet, despite the adversities, he found a rhythm, his strategy being minimal gear to avoid time loss. This race was not just a physical challenge but a battle against the elements.

 

Triumph and Reflection

In this race against nature, Alex emerged not just as a survivor but as a contender, securing the fourth place. This achievement was a testament not to his physical abilities but to his mental strength. His journey from the depths of personal despair to the heights of Antarctica was more than a race; it was a reaffirmation of life.

Alex's run was fueled by a personal tragedy - the loss of his sister to suicide. This profound loss had steered him towards substance abuse but ultimately led him to a higher purpose. He chose to channel his efforts into raising funds for the Black Dog Institute, gathering $28,000 in memory of his sister and in support of mental health awareness.

 

The Message? Just Start

Alex's story is a beacon for anyone stuck at a crossroads, paralyzed by indecision or fear. His message is clear: the first step is to start, regardless of readiness or circumstances. "Ready, fire, aim," he advises. Begin, adjust, and persevere.

In sharing Alex Cleary's journey, I am reminded of the resilience of the human spirit and the power of transformation. It's a tale that transcends personal achievement, touching the lives of others and contributing to a cause greater than oneself. If you're contemplating a leap into the unknown, take a leaf out of Alex's book: just start. It could lead you to places you never imagined, even to the icy expanse of Antarctica.