3:47Australian sets 152-hour endurance run record with fast food diet
Published by YuToday Staff
0 views · 7 hours ago · 3:47 read · September 2, 2026
In a display of relentless endurance, Australian athlete Phil Gore has shattered records by running 6.71 kilometers every hour for six consecutive days. The feat, completed in Perth’s Forrestdale Lake, relied on a diet heavy in fast food, sugar, and minimal sleep, while raising $285,000 for children’s medical research in Western Australia.
Key takeaways
- Phil Gore ran 6.71km every hour for 152 hours straight, setting an unofficial Backyard Ultra record.
- His diet relied heavily on fast food and sugar injections to sustain energy levels.
- The run raised $285,000 for children’s medical research in Western Australia.
- The Backyard Ultra format requires runners to complete laps hourly with no fixed end time.
How Phil Gore Ran 152 Hours Straight
Phil Gore’s record-breaking Backyard Ultra run was a test of physical and mental limits. Every hour, he completed a 6.71km lap around Forrestdale Lake, leaving just 15 minutes for sleep, meals, and recovery. His diet included fast food like cheeseburgers, supplemented by sugar injections to maintain energy levels. The Backyard Ultra format requires runners to stop one lap after the second-place competitor drops out, capping the potential duration. Gore’s 2025 record of 119 hours left him feeling he had more to give, but the format’s constraints made this year’s achievement even more remarkable.
The Role of Fast Food and Sugar in Endurance
Gore’s unconventional fueling strategy played a key role in his success. Fast food provided quick calories, while sugar injections helped sustain energy during the grueling hours. The strategy highlights the balance between immediate energy needs and long-term endurance in ultra-running. Gore’s ability to adapt his diet to the demands of the race underscores the creativity required in extreme endurance events. His approach also sparked discussions about the role of nutrition in breaking physical barriers.
Raising Funds for Children’s Health While Breaking Records
Beyond the personal achievement, Gore’s run raised $285,000 for Telethon, a Western Australian charity supporting children’s medical research and health services. The live-streamed event attracted a growing audience, amplifying the impact of his feat. The fundraising success exceeded his initial goal, adding a philanthropic dimension to his record-breaking performance. The money will support critical health services for children in the region, demonstrating how endurance challenges can drive meaningful change.
The Backyard Ultra Format: A Unique Challenge
The Backyard Ultra format is unlike traditional endurance races. Runners must complete a set distance every hour, with no breaks between laps. The race ends when only one runner remains, forcing competitors to push beyond their limits. Gore’s 152-hour run highlights the mental and physical toll of the format, as well as its potential for record-breaking feats. The format’s simplicity—no fixed course or time limit—makes it accessible yet brutally demanding, attracting a niche but dedicated community of ultra-runners.
What’s Next for Phil Gore?
Gore’s record-breaking run leaves open the question of whether he will attempt an even longer challenge. The Backyard Ultra format’s constraints may limit future attempts, but his 2026 feat sets a new benchmark. Recovery will be critical, as such endurance events take a significant toll on the body. Gore’s focus may shift to sharing his experience and inspiring others to push their limits. The fundraising success also opens doors for future charitable endeavors tied to endurance sports.
How the Community Reacted to Gore’s Achievement
Gore’s run generated widespread attention, with fans and fellow athletes praising his determination and creativity. Social media buzzed with admiration for his fast-food-fueled endurance, while experts debated the health implications of his diet. The event’s live-stream drew a global audience, further cementing its place in the ultra-running community. Gore’s achievement has sparked conversations about the limits of human endurance and the role of unconventional strategies in breaking records.
What happens next
Phil Gore’s record-breaking run has set a new standard in endurance sports, but the question remains: how long can humans push their limits? The Backyard Ultra format continues to attract athletes willing to test their boundaries, while Gore’s achievement may inspire others to explore unconventional strategies. The fundraising success also highlights the potential for endurance events to drive meaningful change. As the ultra-running community reflects on Gore’s feat, the focus may shift to recovery, sharing lessons learned, and planning future challenges.
People also ask
What is a Backyard Ultra?
A Backyard Ultra is an endurance race where runners must complete a set distance every hour. The race continues until only one runner remains, making it a test of both physical and mental stamina.
How did Phil Gore fuel his 152-hour run?
Gore relied on fast food, sugar injections, and minimal sleep to sustain his energy. His diet included cheeseburgers and other quick-calorie sources to keep him going during the grueling hours.
How much money did Phil Gore raise during his run?
Gore raised $285,000 for Telethon, a charity supporting children’s medical research and health services in Western Australia. The fundraising exceeded his initial goal.
Will Phil Gore attempt another record-breaking run?
It is unconfirmed whether Gore plans to attempt another record-breaking run. His 2026 feat sets a new benchmark, but recovery and future goals remain uncertain.