Anchor Board Member, Jacinta Brouwer has begun training for the 100km Buffalo Stampede to raise vital funds for young people experiencing homelessness.
Jacinta’s commitment to Anchor’s cause will see her taking on an enormous trail run in Victoria’s alpine region.
She’ll have some spectacular views, and most likely a few blisters, as she looks to run her way from Bright, up Mount Buffalo and back down again.
She also won’t be tackling the run on her own, having recruited her colleague and friend, Bass as her running partner.
We spoke to Jacinta to see how her preparations for the challenge were coming along, with only a month to go before the event.
Tell us a bit about the event?
JB: I’ll be taking on the 100km Buffalo Stampede, one of Australia’s toughest trail running events. Its a serious endurance challenge with brutal climbs, technical descents, and some of the most breathtaking scenery in the Victorian Alps.
What attracted you to it?
JB: The challenge of pushing myself beyond my limits and the opportunity to raise money for Anchor, which supports young people experiencing homelessness. Combining a personal test of endurance with a cause that truly matters makes this event even more meaningful.
Have you done anything like this before?
JB: Not quite at this level of intensity. I’ve been running seriously for years and have completed several ultra runs, but this will be my toughest test yet.
100km is pretty daunting are you up for it?
JB: I’d like to think so! I’ve put in the training, but I wouldn’t call myself an elite endurance athlete more of a determined distance runner. It’s going to be tough, but that’s part of the appeal.
What have you been doing to prepare?
JB: I run a long run every weekend, usually between a half and full marathon, plus 8-10km runs every second day. I also include strength training and yoga as often as possible. I’ve learned a lot about nutrition and hydration before, during, and after my runs because fuelling properly is just as important as the training itself.
Bright is a pretty nice spot for a gruelling physical activity, right?
JB: Absolutely! If you’re going to suffer for 100km, you might as well do it somewhere spectacular. The trails, the mountains, the fresh alpine air it’s one of the most stunning places in Australia for trail running.
You’re not alone though, you’ve got a running partner in Bass Srour. How do you know Bass?
Bass and I are colleagues at NAB and great friends. I admire him both personally and professionally. Taking on a challenge like this with someone you respect and genuinely enjoy running with makes it even more special. I couldn’t ask for a better teammate.
We’re also lucky to have Brett as part of our support crew, guiding us through the final 30km, when things will really start to hurt. And hopefully, my children can be there too, which would be an incredible motivation boost!
How does Bass help motivate you?
JB: Running 100km is as much a mental battle as a physical one. Having a running partner like Bass keeps me accountable, helps me push through the tough moments, and makes the whole experience more enjoyable (or at least slightly less painful!).
Why are you guys passionate about raising money for youth homelessness?
JB: Bass and I share the same belief: no young person should have to experience homelessness. Anchor does incredible work providing support, housing, and opportunities for young people doing it tough. If we can endure one day of suffering to help change someone’s future, it’s worth every step.
What can people do to support your run?
Every dollar counts! People can donate to Anchor via our fundraising page, help spread the word about youth homelessness, or send us messages of encouragement because a little support in the lead-up to race day goes a long way!
