What do you get when you combine a marathon, a toga and a Guinness World Record attempt? One very memorable fundraiser.  

On Sunday 11 October 2026, WAHNCSF Board Member and Finance Director Mike will take on the Chester Marathon in the UK with an ambitious goal: complete the 42.2-kilometre course in under four hours while dressed as Zeus and attempt a Guinness World Record in the process. 

The challenge is certainly unconventional. A full white toga, wig, beard and laurel crown will form part of Mike’s race-day attire. But behind the costume and the world-record attempt is a much more serious purpose, raising funds and awareness for the WA Head & Neck Cancer Support Foundation (WAHNCSF). 

A Marathon with a Purpose 

Mike is aiming to raise $2,500 for WAHNCSF by 30 November, with every dollar raised going directly towards supporting Western Australians affected by head and neck cancer. 

WAHNCSF is dedicated to supporting patients, families and carers throughout the head and neck cancer journey, from diagnosis and treatment through recovery. The Foundation provides practical, local support to people and families navigating what can be an incredibly challenging time. 

For Mike, the cause has also become personal. 

In June 2026, he received a diagnosis of a small skin cancer. Fortunately, it was detected early and successfully treated. While his experience was minor compared with the challenges faced by many cancer patients, the diagnosis reinforced an important reminder: cancer can affect anyone, at any time. 

As a member of the WAHNCSF Board, Mike has also seen first-hand the difference the Foundation makes to patients and families across Western Australia. 

“The Foundation supports people every day facing far bigger diagnoses than mine. As a Board Member, I’ve seen first-hand the difference a small charity with committed people can make.” 

Making Every Kilometer Count 

Preparing for a marathon requires months of training, discipline and commitment. Preparing to run a marathon dressed as Zeus adds another element to the challenge. 

The aim is to complete the Chester Marathon in under four hours while keeping the toga, wig, beard and laurel crown firmly in place. 

But the record is not the ultimate goal. 

The real ambition is to use the challenge to shine a light on head and neck cancer and raise much-needed funds for WAHNCSF. 

“I’m doing what I can: 42.2 km. In a toga. For a real cause,” Mike said. 

Every donation, regardless of size, can contribute to the Foundation’s work. For example, fundraising contributions can help provide: 

  • $25 towards counselling support for a newly diagnosed patient 
  • $50 towards a family care pack 
  • $100 towards education and awareness initiatives 
  • $250 towards hospital equipment and patient support 

Supporting Western Australians Affected by Head & Neck Cancer 

Head and neck cancer affects not only patients, but also their families and carers. WAHNCSF provides vital practical and emotional support to Western Australians throughout diagnosis, treatment and recovery. 

Mike’s Chester Marathon fundraiser will help strengthen this work while raising awareness of the challenges faced by those affected by head and neck cancer. 

You don’t need to run 42.2 kilometers or wear a toga to make a difference. Donate to Mike’s fundraiser, share the campaign or help spread the word. 

Together, we can help Mike reach his $2,500 goal by 30 November 2026 and ensure more Western Australians can access the support they need.