Orr’s indomitable spirit

The late Duncan Orr wasn’t concerned with gold medals or world records on the running track, he was more interested in pushing the limits and trying new things.

His indomitable spirit lives on through Duncan’s Run 100, a distance running event its namesake always dreamed of hosting at his beloved Tarra Bulga National Park.

Established in 2013 to realise that dream, the ultra-marathon has acted as a tribute to Duncan and his love of running ever since.

Run committee member Anna Cardillo said her late husband was an inspiration to many who travelled to the natural wonder to take part.

“In the past we’ve had people attempt to do the 100 (kilometre event) because of Duncan; he was just getting into ultra-running and a lot of people are inspired (by him),” Ms Cardillo said.

“He wasn’t an awesome runner he was just an average runner trying to do things outside his comfort zone.

“They try to push themselves and everyone remembers that Duncan loved trail running so people will be out there trying to enjoy the atmosphere, experience, views and running in general.”

The trademark 100km event will not be staged this year due to logistical challenges, with 50km, 21km and 6km distances slated for 1 April.

The 28km was scaled back to a half-marathon distance by popular demand and will traverse the picturesque Mount Tassie trail.

It is also a departure from the traditional December date after heat and bushfire risk caused the postponement of the 2015 run.

Despite the changes, Ms Cardillo still expected about 100 people to take part, including many of Duncan’s friends and family members.

“It’s an emotional day for all of us. It’s just really humbling to see everyone, because these people are out there for Duncan, we wouldn’t get the numbers if it wasn’t for him.

“He loved it out there, he loved Tarra Bulga, and we’d only just begun to explore it together.

“For people to come out, have a look, have a go and try to push yourself to do something you wouldn’t normally do – to me that’s what it’s about.”

Duncan’s Run 100 will be staged at Tarra Bulga National Park on Saturday, 1 April.

For more information or to register visit www.duncansrun.com.au email info@duncansrun.com.au or visit the Facebook page.