Since 2009, the Indigenous Marathon Project has seen 167 graduates cross the finish line of a major international race.

Delivered by the Indigenous Marathon Foundation, the project selects a squad each year, providing training and support in the lead up to tackling the 42 kilometre challenge.

In 2025, football icons in their respective codes Johnathan Thurston and Lance Franklin jumped on board, completing the New York City Marathon in November within the squad of 13.

IMP is looking for their next group to take on the journey. The national search has begun for this year's squad with applications open.

"We're looking for applicants who have a strong 'why', are ready to step outside their comfort zone, and are keen to learn and apply their leaderships skills in community after the program," head coach Jack Stevens said.

"If that sounds like you or someone you know, please apply."

Aside from running, the Indigenous Marathon Foundation's ethos is to create leaders in their community as role models buoyed by their own achievements.

The Foundation also delivers wellbeing programs to communities around the country in their efforts to 'create ripple effects of change'.

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Selection is not limited to those with a running pedigree.

"When we started IMP 16 years ago, no First Nations man or woman had run an international marathon event," said former world champion and IMP founder Robert de Castella.

"It's been incredible to see the power of the program in action over the years, breaking cycles, building confidence, and creating healthy role models in communities big and small across Australia."

In 2010, inaugural graduate Charlie Maher became the first known Indigenous Australian to finish the New York City Marathon.

Now IMF Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Chief Officer, his marathon days are far from over. Last year he became the first person in the country to run a marathon in all eight states and territories within a single year, also the first Indigenous man to complete all seven major world marathons when he crossed the line in Sydney.

More than 230 marathons have been run by IMP graduates in all.

IMP covers all the costs - from travel to equipment and education - for squad members across the year.