I decided to run the Guzzler as my big event this year as I lived in Brisbane for 10 years and had always wanted to do an ultra in Queensland. I live in NZ and I run for an Autism Running charity I founded whereby I donate free running shoes to kids with Autism and help them into a free running and movement program.

I am on the Spectrum myself as well as being a Teacher of ASD children.

I love to run and although I ran long distance as a teen, I rediscovered it again a few years ago. I have run 7 Ultras but it is always just about getting to the finish line and having fun on the way.

Ultra Running to me is like one big childhood adventure and exploration and I like to look at it that way and keep the fun in it.

[In Nov 18] I was named the NZ people’s choice award voted by the NZ public for my work with kids with Autism and the prize money allowed me to buy more footwear for kids as well as attend the World Autism conference in Houston.

My proudest trail moment was probably helping an Autistic boy to his first cross country finish, I also love “running the school day” where I talk about Autism and run around the oval at schools all day and kids join in for as many laps as they wish. Personally probably a finish in the 50k Northburn was my toughest run.

I am really looking forward to the Guzzler and meeting local runners and I will put in some good training and hopefully run a good race for my standards.

I respect everyday and beginner athletes as much as the elites, Trail running is so inclusive and an easy going bunch. It doesn’t matter where you go in the world-runners welcome you in and relate.

You can find Jason on Instagram @runningonthespectrum