Margaret River distance runners Katie Lovis and Jarrad Bolton to undertake Gibb River run for charity

A pair of Margaret River runners are taking on the ultimate challenge for a good cause. Katie Lovis and melanoma survivor Jarrad Bolton will undertake a gruelling Gibb River run raising funds for the Melanoma Institute in May. Despite long experience as runners, the duo have taken on a tough training regimen to prepare themselves for the 660km trial. Bolton is a stage 4 melanoma survivor and former Ironman, while Lovis holds the current female record for the Cape-to-Cape Track at just over 17 hours to complete the 129km route. Lovis also last year won the Northern Territory’s Larapinta long course and has competed in numerous long distance challenges. “We hope to complete this gruelling 660km run – touted as one of Australia’s most challenging drives, let alone runs – over 10 days, all the while raising much-needed funds for cancer research and awareness,” Lovis said. “With neither of us being strangers to discomfort and ultra-distance running, this particular run is close to both of our hearts with Jarrad being in remission after a stage 4 melanoma diagnosis in late 2019.” Bolton said he’d undergone 18 months of radiation and immunotherapy treatment to achieve remission and was up for the gruelling Kimberley run. The pair was expected to clock in at least 70km per day, with a support team to keep them hydrated and safe. But the real target was an ambitious $200,000 fundraising goal. “We are hoping to not only complete the distance, but also to raise $200,000 for the Melanoma Institute,” Lovis said. To follow the pair’s journey, checked out @katielovis1 and @bolts88_ on Instagram, and to donate, visit diy.melanoma.org.au/page/JarradBolton.