Clubs Support Mark Hughes Foundation Charity Run

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Melbourne to Newcastle is a long journey for anyone travelling in a car, but one can only imagine doing the entire journey on foot.

Ultra marathon runner Scott Hingston’s epic journey wrapped up on Friday, 26 June and captured hearts across NSW, as he raised funds and awareness for the Mark Hughes Foundation.

His aim for the charity, dedicated to brain cancer research and started by a former Newcastle Knights star who was previously diagnosed with the disease, was to raise $100,000.

Covering more than 1100 kilometres, Scott’s run began at AAMI Park in Melbourne and finished at McDonald Jones Stadium in Newcastle, where the Newcastle Knights NRL team—closely tied to the Mark Hughes Foundation—played that evening.

The route wound through dozens of towns and cities, highlighting both the physical challenge and the emotional commitment behind the cause.

As he ran through communities along the way, Scott found unwavering support from local clubs, who have stepped up to back his mission with donations, accommodation and encouragement.

One of the major stops on Scott’s journey was Panthers Bathurst, where the Club presented him with a $1000 donation.

“We're going to donate $1000 to the Foundation today and it's just really good for cancer research and brain research,” said Panthers Bathurst General Manager Mark Burns.

“People are always affected by cancer in some form or another.”

After leaving Bathurst, Scott continued on to Lithgow, where Lithgow Workies welcomed him with a free night’s accommodation.

“The country towns are so supportive,” Scott says.

“Every town we go through, they always want to get behind it. The whole vibe is very positive and everyone wants to do their bit to get on board and get involved.”

The support didn’t stop there. Panthers Penrith and Wyong Leagues Club also joined the effort, with Wyong Leagues contributing another $1000 donation and Panthers offering accommodation in their on-site hotel to help Scott rest and recover along the way.

“It's a great cause and you know we've done things with Mark (Hughes Foundation) in the past as we really respect the work that he does,” says Wyong Leagues Marketing Manager Keith Cameron.

“The cause is a very important one that affects the community.

To learn more or donate to Scott’s campaign, visit the Mark Hughes Foundation website.