Phil has always been interested in running, especially when he was in the Royal Australian Air Force in the 1970s.
“I’ve mainly kept running the City to Surf to raise awareness of Activ Foundation, and because Bob and I have done every one of them… so we have to keep going!”
Modest about his achievement of reaching his 50th event, Phil says it’s a special honour to be one of only two people to have done every event.
“It’s good to catch up with people I’ve met over the years and do our little bit to raise awareness for Activ Foundation.”
He reminisces about his times across the decades where things haven’t always gone exactly to plan but he’s managed to get to the event and take part.
“When I was working in the railways I travelled from Kalgoorlie or Esperance to be here for the City to Surf. Even having a sprained ankle or having the flu didn’t stop me from competing. Even COVID didn’t stop us – Bob and I still ran the course when the event wasn’t able to be held officially.”
Phil says his aim for 2024 is to be fitter to complete the 12km run.
“It’s a fun event, anyone can do it. If you can’t run just come along and walk either the 4km or 12km – and raise awareness and funds for Activ Foundation with all of us!”