Student runs to a big donation

A SWEDISH exchange student has completed an amazing challenge, running more than 100 kilometres to help raise money for breast cancer research. Rotary exchange student Gusten Danielson, 17, on Sunday completed a non-stop run from Tullamarine to Castlemaine in support of the McGrath Foundation. Gusten started running in cold and wet conditions. He took to the road at 3.30am and finished at 3.30pm outside the Castlemaine Town Hall. He was greeted by about 50 people, including friends and families he has stayed with during his time in Australia. “It was very, very painful - the last 30 to 40 kilometres was incredibly painful,” he said. “I realised how far 100 kilometres is, and that 12 hours is a very long time. “It would feel like a waste if I hadn’t completed it. I knew I wouldn’t give it another try, so I just had to manage.”Gusten spent the past two days in bed to recover from the run.Initially, his friends didn’t think he was serious about the run, but later they threw their support behind him. Gusten kept going by eating bananas, jam sandwiches, chips and lollies throughout the day. He raised more than $6000 for the McGrath Foundation, but was still hoping to raise up to $10,000.With his 12-month stay almost over, Gusten said he had enjoyed his time in Australia. “It’s a bit sad leaving everyone you have come to know.”Gusten studied at Castlemaine Secondary College and was hosted by five families in Castlemaine and surrounding areas. He leaves Australia on July 11 to return to his home in Norrkoping, on the south-east coast of Sweden, one hour south of the capital Stockholm. He said people could continue to support his run with a donation up until June 27. Anyone wishing to support Gusten’s run can leave a donation at Harding’s Footwear at 174 Barker Street, Castlemaine, or visit www.mcgrathfoundation.com.au and quote community event number CE00745.