This September marked a historic moment in the world of distance running: the 2025 TCS Sydney Marathon officially joined the prestigious Abbott World Marathon Majors, becoming the seventh race in the global series. As tens of thousands laced up their sneakers beneath the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge, the spotlight wasn’t just on the course or the finish line—it was on purpose, passion, and the people who ran for more than a medal.

Among those runners were 10 extraordinary individuals representing the Allyson Whitney Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting young adults with rare cancers. These athletes didn’t just conquer 26.2 miles—they carried stories of courage, loss, hope, and love every step of the way.

Running for Rare—The Power of Purpose

The Allyson Whitney Foundation has long been a lifeline for young adults battling rare cancers—offering financial grants, community support, and advocacy in a space where young voices are often overlooked. This year’s Sydney Marathon team brought those stories to life in bold and beautiful ways.

Each of the 10 runners had a personal reason to race. All were united by one shared mission: to honor the fight of young adults with rare cancers and raise funds to empower their journeys.

Standout Story #1: A Father’s Run of Gratitude

One of the most moving stories came from Sam Wax, a father who ran beside his wife Becky, both fueled by gratitude. Their young son had once battled—and beat—cancer. Every mile of their marathon was a celebration of life and resilience, a powerful way to give back to others still fighting. Their footsteps echoed with hope for families who are still on their journey.

Standout Story #2: A Daughter’s Tribute to Her Mom and Ally

Another standout runner was Ashleah Monegan, a young adult who ran in honor of her mother, a survivor of the same rare and aggressive cancer that took the life of Allyson Whitney, the foundation’s namesake. Her mother and Ally were connected through the Small Cell Sisterhood, a global support group for those affected by small cell cervical cancer.

Through tears and triumph, this runner carried the torch of remembrance and solidarity. Her mom’s survival is a beacon—and her run honored not only her mother’s strength, but Ally’s enduring legacy as well.

Why This Matters

Rare cancers don’t get the attention—or funding—that more common diagnoses receive. Yet for the thousands of young adults facing rare and aggressive forms of the disease, every voice, every story, every dollar raised matters. The Allyson Whitney Foundation fills this gap, offering direct support when it’s needed most—and this marathon team showed exactly what that kind of love in motion looks like.

More Than a Medal

As Sydney takes its place among the world’s most iconic marathons—from Boston to Berlin—the 10 Allyson Whitney Foundation runners proved that these races are more than athletic feats. They’re platforms for purpose. They remind us that when you run for something bigger than yourself, the finish line is just the beginning.

We are in awe of our 10 incredible charity runners—warriors, survivors, caregivers, and advocates—who made history not just on the streets of Sydney, but in the hearts of every person they ran for.

Support the Cause

Want to join the fight? Learn more about the Allyson Whitney Foundation and how you can support young adults battling rare cancers at www.allysonwhitney.org.

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Whether you run, donate, or simply share these stories—you’re helping light the way for others.