Who Is Tim Franklin?

Tim wasn’t always an ultra-endurance runner. In fact, as a younger man he faced significant health challenges and lifestyle struggles before turning his life around – a personal transformation that set the stage for his around-the-world mission.  A former lawyer from Brisbane, Tim decided to pursue a “big, hairy, audacious goal” to run around the world, not just to break records but to inspire others to get moving and chase their own goals.

Setting off in December 2022, Tim embarked on a west-to-east circumnavigation that took him through the varied landscapes of New Zealand, across the United States from San Francisco to New York, down through South America, over to Europe and Asia, and finally back home across Australia. By the end, he had logged the equivalent of over 622 marathons, averaging more than a marathon a day. Such an accomplishment, pending official verification, makes Tim’s run the second-fastest circumnavigation on record (the fastest being 434 days by Serge Girard in 2017).

A Journey of Endurance and Perseverance

Tim’s round-the-world run was filled with extreme highs and lows. He battled through scorching desert heat, sub-zero blizzards, flooding rains, and even a tornado during his odyssey

He wore out 21 pairs of running shoes and braved traffic hazards (at one point even being clipped by cars) – all part of the challenge when you’re essentially running a marathon or more every single day. Yet the physical pain and exhaustion were only part of the trial. In mid-journey, Tim was confronted with a deeply personal heartbreak: his beloved father was diagnosed with a terminal illness. Facing this news, Tim made the only decision that felt right – he paused his record attempt and flew home to Brisbane to be with his dad in his final days.

“It was actually the easiest decision I’ve ever made in my life,” Tim later reflected on stepping away from the run
Tim’s father passed away shortly after urging his son with one final wish: “No matter what happens, get back out there and finish this damned race.”
Carrying that memory and his father’s encouragement in his heart, Tim laced up his shoes again. He returned to the exact spot where he’d left off and continued his run, channeling his grief into determination to honour his dad’s legacy

Finding strength, one step at a time Turning pain into purpose

Resuming the journey was far from easy – Tim speaks candidly about how mentally tough it was to leave his family and run solo with his loss. “Mentally it’s friggin’ hard,” he admitted of those days back on the road, when every step was laden with emotion.

Over time, however, he found his rhythm again. He shifted his focus from racing the clock to simply putting “one foot in front of the other”
, finding meaning in each stride. With renewed purpose, Tim turned his quest into something greater than a world record attempt. He dedicated it to his father’s memory and to “run for those who can’t,” supporting several charities along the way and inspiring countless people who tracked his progress.

The Power of Support and Checking In

One theme that came through strongly in our conversation with Tim is the power of a support network. Though running may sound like a solitary sport, Tim emphasizes that he never felt truly alone on his journey. Friends and even strangers would join him for stretches; locals offered help in foreign countries; and his crew and supporters back home kept him motivated. “I’ve met so many amazing people along the way… and I continue to feed off their support,” Tim said, reflecting on the community that rallied around him. In Romania, for example, a friend flew out to run alongside him for two days in brutal winter conditions – a gesture of solidarity that gave Tim a boost when he needed it most.

Crucially, Tim credits his close-knit team for believing in him even when his own confidence faltered. “I’m lucky that everyone on my team thought I could do it… and kept pushing me, because there were plenty of times where I didn’t think I was going to get through it,” he told us. This heartfelt admission underscores how even the toughest individuals need someone to check in and cheer them on. It echoes the core message of R U OK?Day: that a simple expression of care or a listening ear can make a world of difference.

Inspiring Lessons From Tim’s Journey

As Tim shared his experiences, the conversation left all of us feeling uplifted and inspired. His triumph was not just in running around the world, but in affirming the goodness of people and the strength we can draw from one another. It made clear that achievements like Tim’s are never truly solo endeavors – they’re a team effort, built on countless small acts of kindness, understanding, and encouragement. In the spirit of R U OK? Day, Tim’s journey challenges each of us to be that source of support for someone else, and to never underestimate the impact of a compassionate question or a well-timed check-in.

R U OK? Day A simple question can mean everything.

R U OK? Day is Australia’s annual day dedicated to reminding us to stay connected and have meaningful conversations about life’s ups and downs. The idea is disarmingly simple – take the time to ask, “Are you OK?” – but it can literally change a life. Tim’s story is a powerful illustration of why this message matters. On the surface, he was accomplishing an almost superhuman feat; yet behind the scenes he was grappling with grief and pain. If not for the support and encouragement of those around him, he might well have struggled to find the strength to carry on. It’s a timely reminder that we never truly know what someone might be going through – even when they appear to be “on top of the world.” A colleague, friend or family member could be fighting their own marathon of challenges internally. Simply asking “Are you OK?” and being there to listen might be the nudge that helps them keep going or seek help when needed.

Key Takeaways

 

Hidden Battles

No matter how successful or strong someone appears, you never know what they might be going through behind the scenes. Tim’s incredible run hid personal heartbreak and pain – a reminder to practice empathy with everyone we meet.

“Are You OK?” – Three Small Words

You never know how much it could help someone to simply ask if they are OK. Tim’s story shows that having people reach out and show care during dark times gave him strength. Don’t shy away from starting that conversation – it could be life-changing.

The Power of Support Networks

Achieving big goals or overcoming hardships is a team effort. Tim had a web of supporters – from his father and family, to friends, colleagues, and even friendly strangers – who lifted him up. Supporting each other at work and in life creates resilience and fosters success.

Resources and Further Inspiration

To learn how you can get involved or find guidance on supporting others, visit the R U OK? And to read more about Tim Franklin’s ongoing journey (or to book him as a motivational speaker), you can visit Tim Franklin’s website for more information.

RUOK? Official Website

Run It Together Let Tim’s story be an enduring inspiration.

Whether you’re running a marathon or simply navigating the day-to-day, asking for help and offering support are not signs of weakness, but of true strength. As we carry the spirit of R U OK?Day beyond just one day, remember that a conversation could change a life – and that every endurance journey, big or small, is easier when we run it together.

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