From Fitzroy River to Central Park: Della Bedford's historic marathon journey

Rhiannon Clarke Published November 6, 2024 at 7.00am (AWST)

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Indigenous Marathon Projects athlete Della Bedford recently completed the New York Marathon in 4 hours, 28 minutes, and 55 seconds. (Image: The Indigenous Marathon Project)

Proud Bunuba Kija woman Della Bedford recently completed the New York Marathon in an impressive time of 4 hours, 28 minutes, and 55 seconds.

Reflecting on her experience, Ms Bedford, who hails from Fitzroy Crossing, said she felt a surge of strength in the race's final quarter, allowing her to increase her pace and cross the finish line where her mother was there to celebrate the moment with her.

"That was one of the best parts of the run! It was such a good feeling," she said, via ABC Kimberley.

For Ms Bedford, another memorable part of the marathon was running through Central Park.

Surrounded by crowds on both sides with the sun breaking through the trees, she labelled it a "surreal" experience.

Just two weeks prior Ms Bedford had been training at home, running across a new bridge over the Fitzroy River at dawn.

Fitzroy Crossing athlete Della Bedford recently completed the New York Marathon in less than four and a half hours. (Image: The Indigenous Marathon Foundation/Facebook)

Despite feeling the strain in her feet from her first full marathon, she completed the 42km race with determination.

The Indigenous Marathon Project (IMP) was founded in 2009 by world marathon champion Rob de Castella.

In 2010, the program made history when four Indigenous Australians became the first to participate in the New York City Marathon, the world's largest marathon event.

IMP was created to use long-distance running as a platform to drive social change, inspire Indigenous communities, and develop strong Indigenous role models.

The program has continued to empower Indigenous runners from across Australia, supporting participants such as Ms Bedford in achieving remarkable feats on the global stage.

Months of dedicated preparation led Ms Bedford to her achievement on one of the world's largest marathon stages.