THE
INDIGENOUS
MARATHON
FOUNDATION

What we strive for…

A reconciled, unified, and healthy Australia.

How we contribute…

We support and celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, cultures, strength, and achievements, through running (and walking).

We…

Respect, recognise and celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, cultures, perspectives, and aspirations.
Improve the health, wellbeing, quality of life and physical literacy of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples through running (and walking).
Provide opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to inspire themselves, their families, communities, and the nation.
Foster opportunities through running for reconciliation and education.
Exemplify integrity and excellence in everything we do.

The Indigenous Marathon Project (IMP) was established in 2009 by world marathon champion, Rob de Castella, and in 2010 four Indigenous Australians created history as the first to run in the world’s biggest marathon – the New York City Marathon.

The IMP has grown significantly with 132 graduates finishing a major international marathon, including New York, Boston, Tokyo, London, Paris and Berlin, and completing a compulsory education in health and leadership.

MEET THE IMP GRADUATES

The continual growth and expansion of the IMP led to the establishment of the IMF in 2015 which covers four core programs:

The Indigenous Marathon Project (IMP)
Indigenous Communities for Activity and Nutrition (I-CAN)
FrontRunners (a Graduate specific program)
IMF Running and Walking Australia (IMF RAW)

Running and physical activity underpin all IMF programs and we are committed to providing social, inclusive, and fun environments for people to adopt active and healthy lifestyles.

Learn more about our programs below.

Indigenous Marathon Project

Each year a group of 12 Indigenous Australians are selected to train for the New York City Marathon with just six months of training.

IMF RAW

IMF Running and Walking (IMF RAW) has grown from the successful Deadly Fun Run series and the voluntary work that IMP Graduates are contributing to their communities, to pass forward the positive mental, emotional and physical benefits that IMP experience has provided to them.

Front Runners

IMF’s FrontRunners program provides the opportunity for IMP Graduates to access grants to establish running and fitness groups, establish their own business, and/or undertake personal, professional, and career development courses.

I-CAN Activity & Nutrition

I-CAN encourages school attendance and addresses childhood obesity and inactivity by installing running tracks and fitness equipment in primary schools or in Indigenous community parks.