BALI HOPE ULTRA

From a distance, watching a veteran endurance athlete take on a coast-to-coast double marathon might look like a breeze.

Up close on Bali Hope week, it’s a different story - a deep, internal journey that pushes many runners to achieve what they once dismissed as impossible. And by sharing that with a group the connections formed are profound too.

For the many participants joining us in Bali for their very first ultra-marathon, this isn’t just a race; it’s the moment they redefine their own ‘possible’. Every year (and twice this year, as we return in November), it is a privilege to witness this transformation. We see pre-conceived limits shatter as personal trajectories shift toward a more powerful future.

This impact extends far beyond the track. In 2017, we fundraised for the community of Tigawasa, northern Bali, where literacy rates sat at just 30%. Nine years later, that community has also been transformed: today, 34% of school leavers are now making it through to college or apprenticeships, and employment that lifts up everyone around them.

We’re building the team for our inaugural November team. Join us find out exactly what happens when you stop believing in ‘impossible.’

Very happy to introduce Maddy who is joining us in May. Another brilliant teacher and changemaker coming over to make a difference in Bali and inspire her own community in the process.

“I’m running Bali Hope Ultra for so many reasons… but at the heart of it, this journey is not just about the run and its challenge, it’s about coming together as a community to support thousands of children.
It’s to trust strength, test resilience but also learn to trust me.
Running has become my greatest teacher. It challenges me, humbles me, and gives back more than I ever expect.
Doing this alongside my bestie and with my family supporting me makes it even more powerful. There’s something so special about chasing big goals surrounded by likeminded people.
Education is my passion. As a teacher, I know the life-changing power of it. I see it every day. And being part of something that supports and celebrates that power means everything to me.
Running is as much a challenge as it is an incredible journey. It’s my favourite way to de-stress. To be totally within myself. To breathe. To grow. To learn to love every single step, even the tough ones.
Here’s to trust. To purpose. To passion. And to the kms ahead.
Here’s to new friends, new memories and new opportunities for those, so they to can learn, grow and flourish.”

April here is a first time ultra runner and teacher (almost the exact type of brilliant human we dream of having on board) who is joining us in May with her husband Sam and close friend Maddy.

In April’s words:

Growing up, I can recall having many different hopes and dreams that I wanted to achieve over the course of my life. On reflection of these feelings I first had as a child, I feel very lucky to have grown up with the privilege that has provided me the opportunity to access an education, which in turn has allowed me to chase these dreams. This opportunity has led me to have many positive experiences, as well as build the skills and resilience to deal with any challenges life has thrown at me, shaping me into the person I am today.

As a passionate teacher, I understand the fundamental role that having access to education can play in many elements of life. I am extremely grateful to work in education, helping students build the skills required to be positive contributors to their community, beyond their school years.

My decision to attempt the mental and physical challenge of running the Bali Hope Ultramarathon (84.4km across Bali overnight) was fuelled by my determination to make a difference in the lives of children. I am eager to embrace challenges in life and feel that the purpose of this event aligns extremely closely with my personal values.

I feel a strong connection to education and am empowered by the opportunity to make a difference. Giving children a chance to receive an education, leading to positive outcomes (including accessing future study, employment to gain an income and improved health outcomes) is pivotal to making significant change, particularly in these small communities.

I am a firm believer that the family you are born in to, should not affect your opportunity to learn, dream, and reach your goals. I am raising funds for Bali Children Foundation to transform education in North Bali; supporting positive change that opens doors to brighter futures. I know that every donation, no matter how big or small will contribute to making a significant difference.

I appreciate you joining me in creating lasting change. Bring it on!

Craig is coming over to Bali for his first ultra. From all we hear from his coach Sean Bell his dedication to his training has been pretty special.

We’ve got very lucky (again) with who is coming to the 7th edition of Bali Hope Ultra this May.

In Craig’s words:

“I’m Craig, a vibrant, easy going, passionate about family, fitness and bringing people together through meaningful experiences.
Being a first-time ultra runner I’m thrilled to be part of the Bali Hope Ultra team and having someone very special to me (Donna) crewing is humbling.
It’s always inspiring to connect with others who share a vision for positive change and creative energy.
To know the money raised will help build schools and provide children with access to quality education — opening doors to opportunities they otherwise wouldn’t have.
Every kilometer I run is a step toward giving a child a brighter future.
Every step in the dark represents the challenges many children face without access to education.
Every kilometre brings us closer to opportunity.
Education changes lives.
Let’s turn kilometres into classrooms.”

Having Jayden on the team for Bali Hope in May makes us very happy for multiple reasons.

Here are just a few:

1. He’s running with his dad Bernie who ran in 2025 and uncle Tom who ran in 2023 and crewed in 2024.

2. Jayden will become the youngest man to run overnight across Bali at the age of just 17. (Never too old, never too young) taking the crown from Will Waugh (2025) and Campbell Jones (2024). 🔥

3. Jayden’s mum and extended family will there too. 🤍

In Jayden’s words:

“Why? To become the youngest person to run across Bali, run across the island with my dad and uncle, and to fundraise for less fortunate Balinese families”

Perfect words.

🫡 👏👏👏

The original solo attempt to run overnight across Bali and help fund some disadvantaged kids through school was made by a first time ultra runner.

And each year about half the team join for their first ultra. Aaron here is the perfect example.

His 1st half marathon in November last year was incredible and we can’t wait to see how he goes in May!

In Aaron’s words:

“My name is Aaron. I am a Carpenter from Melbourne Australia. My running journey started in June 2025 and I shortly realised I had a great passion for it. Inspired by my brother Sean and the work that he and Tom have been able to do for the Bali hope and Bali Children’s foundation made me want to tackle my first ultramarathon! I am incredibly grateful to be running in the Bali hope this year and can’t wait to get into it!”