Minjilang's Nathaniel Cooper is one of 12 First Nations people chosen by the Indigenous Marathon Project to represent their mob on one of the biggest stages in world running — the New York City Marathon.
Cooper is part of the 12-person IMP squad that will travel to the United States in November.
The selection is a major moment for Cooper; an Amurdak/Iwaidja and Maung/Kunbarlang man from Croker Island in the Northern Territory.
"It means a lot to me, it has always been my dream to run New York," Cooper told National Indigenous Times.
Cooper, who is also a talented footballer with Northern Territory Football League club Darwin Buffaloes, said his motivation has grown beyond the personal challenge of running a marathon.
His focus is also on inspiring young people in his community and across the Northern Territory.
"My 'why' has shifted, now it's to inspire people just to turn up, show up and take opportunities," Cooper said.
"Most importantly, it is to inspire and become a true role model for the young kids back in my community, across the Northern Territory and other communities.
"On my runs, all I could think about was those kids and my mob.
"I've always said to myself that maybe my story will change, encourage and inspire people to be better and become better in whatever they want to do in life. This is why I wanted to run a marathon, it's more than just running, it's my storytelling and this is life changing."
This year's squad includes participants from right across the country, with the official list featuring Annalise Beckett, Sheldyn Briggs, Ella Brown, Cooper, Mundinarra Daley, Courtney Hammond, Michelle Kerrin, Ezra Sarra, Oshan Shibasaki, Zach Stewart, Che Wyatt and Murrandoo Yanner.
The squad will now spend the coming months completing the IMP education program, building towards four milestone distances and preparing for New York.
In comments shared by the foundation, several squad members spoke about the pride and responsibility that comes with selection.
"Feeling very grateful and privileged, I am speechless. This is my turn now, so I can't wait to do it for myself and my family," said Ezra Sarra, a Bindal, Goreng Goreng and Torres Strait Islander man from Rennell Island.
Meanwhile, Eastern Arrernte and Tanganekald woman Courtney Hammond said: "It's so competitive, there's so many people I just thought I don't want to get my hopes up, because you never know. But I am very grateful and very happy to be involved."
The Indigenous Marathon Project has long been about more than preparing runners for 42.2 kilometres.
It is a six-month health, education and leadership journey designed to nurture leadership, strengthen identity and inspire positive change in communities.
The project was established in 2009 by world marathon champion Rob de Castella, and four Indigenous Australians created history in 2010 as the first to run in the New York City Marathon.
Since then, 167 graduates have completed major international marathons including New York, Boston, Tokyo, London, Paris and Berlin, while also undertaking education in health and leadership.
