In a truly inspiring effort, the 27-year-old father of two last weekend ran an incredible 100km in 24 hours as part of a Running Challenge to raise money for Gotcha4Life Foundation, a mental fitness charity that provides a go-to person that others can rely on and talk to about anything when times are tough.

A strength and conditioning coach, gym owner and part-time footballer, Aldridge said that he took on the challenge because he wanted to see the next generation grow up with the tools required to deal with mental issues and adversity that they will inevitably face in their lives.

"Mental Health is a trending topic given today's ever-changing climate and it's easy to become or feel isolated and alone. It is also normal to have these feelings in short bursts," Aldridge said.

"But what I've been so lucky to have in these low moments in my life are a core bunch of Gotcha4Life mates that I know are always a phone call away."

Aldridge said that pounding the Gan Gan Road pavement from 12 noon Saturday to 12 noon Sunday had been a surreal experience.

"I think I'm still coming to terms with the adrenaline rush," he said more than 24 hours after finishing the grueling journey. My original intention was to take part in a group run but COVID restrictions meant a change in plans, so I set out on my own."

He said that physically he had held up well "aside from some cramping and sore feet and ankles". Mentally, the going was a lot tougher.

"There were times I had to push through the pain barrier and it was at those times that I thought of my Gotha4Life mates and it helped me immensely to know that we were going through this together. You never know how much impact you're having on someone and how it could change people's lives forever."

Aldridge said raising awareness and funds were behind his decision to take on the challenge.

"I am grateful for the support of family, friends and the donations that keep coming in."

Donate until the end of October at gotcha4life-fundraising.raisely.com/kurt-aldridge.

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