Manar A Star – Beyond the Finish Line

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Manar Al-Shibly's is an amazing Run Beyond graduate who impressed us as she embarked upon the program in 2017, and has continued to do so ever since.

Her attitude, enthusiasm, and encouragement of her team-mates first caught our eye when she was a Year 10 student at Evans High School, struggling to train through Ramadan in order to prepare for her Goal Race at the Westlink M7 Blacktown Running Festival.

Her continued determination beyond the finish line has continued to earn our admiration. She’s currently studying Journalism at university and has given her time and skills to interview some of our other successful graduates.

Thanks to our friends at lululemon‘s Here to Be initiative who have helped us to amplify Manar’s story. Enjoy the video, and learn more about Manar here.

Want to be part of the journey or to share your story with us? Get in touch!

2025 marked a milestone year for The Run Beyond Project — a year defined by growth, impact, and the unwavering belief that running can change lives. With every stride, our students, teachers, supporters, and partners helped push the boundaries of what’s possible, and the results speak for themselves.

A Record-Breaking Year of Graduates

Thanks to the momentum created by the Australian Sports Commission PlayWell Grant awarded to Run Beyond in 2024, our program reached more young people than ever before.

  • 332 students graduated in 2025, representing our largest annual cohort to date.
  • These achievements bring our total number of graduates to 740, a testament to the dedication of our partner schools and the resilience of our students.

Expanding Our Reach Across Australia

This year, The Run Beyond Project was active in 38 schools across four states and territories:

  • New South Wales
  • Victoria
  • Western Australia
  • Northern Territory

We were also supported by five incredible supporter schools, whose commitment helped strengthen our community and extend our impact.

Equipping Every Student for Success

Access and equity remain at the heart of our mission. In 2025, every participating student received high‑quality running shoes and kit — an essential part of ensuring all young people can participate with confidence.
This was made possible through the continued generosity of On Running and Pace Athletics, whose support once again removed barriers and empowered students to show up ready to give their best.

Beyond Borders Virtual Run: Another Inspiring Success

Our annual Beyond Borders Virtual Run returned in 2025, uniting participants from across the country in a shared challenge that celebrates endurance, community, and purpose.
The event’s success will play a crucial role in fueling our next phase of growth, helping us bring the program to an anticipated 60+ schools in 2026.

Looking Ahead

As we close out 2025, we’re energised by what lies ahead. With more schools joining, more students participating, and more communities rallying behind our mission, The Run Beyond Project is poised to make 2026 our most transformative year yet.

Every step taken this year — on the track, in the classroom, and across our communities — has helped shape a brighter future for young people nationwide. Thank you to everyone who has supported us, believed in us, and run beyond with us.

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