Launching the Iraq 100: The first event of its kind - join the mission!

This month, a remarkable adventure will unfold across the breathtaking terrain of northern Iraq: the inaugural Iraq 100 ultramarathon – a first-of-its-kind, four-day stage race and global campaign fundraising for You Belong, a charitable organisation supporting Iraqi refugees to overcome unimagineable loss and displacement.

CurraNZ is proud to support this historic expedition, joining Mario Buchs, ultramarathon coach and long-time CurraNZ advocate, and Tim Buxton (left, picutred with Mario, right), humanitarian and founder of You Belong, as they tackle Tim’s first ultra together, running for a cause that means so much more than the finish line.

Starting on September 16, Tim, Mario, and fellow runners will take on 100 miles (160km) of demanding, sun-baked landscapes - from the battle-scarred city of Mosul, once ravaged by ISIS, through vibrant communities in the Nineveh Plains, and over the famously steep Hamilton Road (pictured below), all the way to the lush mountain town of Soran near the Iranian border. 

Battling temperatures soaring to 40°C, every step will be a powerful tribute to the enduring spirit of Iraq’s refugees - Waymakers who once fled along this very route, chasing hope and safety against impossible odds.

For Tim, this race carries deep, personal meaning. As a young humanitarian living on the frontlines during the ISIS conflict, Tim witnessed extraordinary suffering and heroic resilience among families escaping genocide. It's in these mountains that the “You Belong” mission was born - dedicated to building communities where refugees can truly thrive.

A decade later, Tim returns not just to retrace the path of memory, but to run toward hope, fundraising for You Belong alongside Mario and the team.

CurraNZ will help them in their daunting challenge, by supporting their endurance, recovery, and GI resilience under extreme heat. 

Join Move 100, Raise 100

Everyone is invited to join the movement and make a difference with Move2Belong’s inspiring “Move 100, Raise 100” challenge.

No matter where you are, you can be part of this global campaign - simply pick a goal centered around “100.” Whether you’re running 100km, cycling for 100 minutes, doing 100 burpees, reps, or steps, you can participate solo, with friends, as a team, or even through your school.

Every step, pedal, and rep helps amplify the message of resilience and belonging, raising vital funds for refugees through You Belong - it’s a meaningful act of solidarity and hope. Learn more or start your challenge at Move2Belong, and be part of a community running for change.

Support Tim, Mario, and the You Belong community as they run for change. Every donation helps refugees rebuild their futures and strengthens the bonds of belonging.

All donations appreciated - PLEASE DONATE HERE