During … The early loops went well thanks to careful pacing

What can I say about the Spartan Baby Badass Ultra ( SBBU ). So , these two proper crazies , John Sikiotis ( Johnny Cobra ) and Roberto Riccardi ( Belloc72 ), concocted this event , comprising 100km or 160km in 24 hours , all for The Cows and CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation SA . The funds raised help these little soldiers fighting this shitty disease .

The spoils include bragging rights , a certificate with your chosen Spartan name , an SBBU belt buckle as well as an SBBU survival wristband that is made of a single strand of usable parachute cord ( Paracord ) and

Before … Bovis Dickus prepping for his 100km in 24 hours

has a breaking strength of 249kg . To quote the Owner ’ s Manual , “ In an emergency situation , unravel the bracelet to deploy the paracord to help you get out of the jam .” These little children are the emergency situation , and us Spartans are deploying the paracord to help wherever we can to get them out of the jam .

Whilst some talk a big game , others produce the goods . Putting together an event like SBBU is no small feat , it takes dedication , commitment , perseverance , a massive amount of selflessness and an incredible team of volunteers . It ’ s all good and well doing this , but when you are doing this

After … Exhausted but elated to be finished

to help others , then it ’ s even more special . John and Roberto , you two are incredible individuals , throw in another crazy , The Warmonger , and remember that when you surround yourself with visionaries , your journey will be momentous .

At this year ’ s SBBU , there may have been 37 competitors , but there was an entire army of helpers ensuring the event was a success . Friends , families , loved ones , strangers who became friends , athletes , first-timers , stragglers , caterers , physio ’ s , chiro ’ s , videographers , interviewers , photographers , neighbours , restaurant patrons … you name it , we had it . The bottom line is that none of this happens without a plethora of support . Life is a better adventure , way more fulfilling , when we join together , hold hands , support and make others ’ burdens feel lighter .

Thanks to Michael Rae for kicking my ass to take part , to all our kiddos for supporting throughout the event and putting up with my crazy requests , and to Isabel Mckenna , for being my anchor . Love you all . Rest assured , you have all played your part in helping to make a suffering youngster ’ s life a little more joyful today . I may now be a SPARTAN , but I will never be as brave a warrior as these little kids !

Images : Courtesy Rob Riccardi , Richard Laskey & the CHOC Cows