Singapore’s ultramarathoner and Guinness World Record holder, Natalie Dau, is preparing to embark on her second Project 1000—a feat that promises to be as inspiring as her first.
This monumental 1,000-kilometer run, scheduled for April 2025, will take her across Luzon, the largest island in the Philippines. With every step, Natalie aims to inspire communities, empower women, and bring attention to critical social causes.
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What is Project 1000?
Project 1000 represents Natalie Dau’s commitment to pushing boundaries—both physical and societal. It’s more than a personal challenge; it’s a movement to unite people through the power of endurance and purpose. Her first Project 1000, completed in June 2024, saw her running from Thailand to Singapore, raising over $50,000 for the GRLS initiative and securing a Singapore record for her efforts.
The upcoming run builds on this legacy, with Natalie tackling a new route and new challenges. Starting on 21 April 2025, in San Vicente, she will traverse Luzon’s west coast, through Manila, and conclude her journey on 2 May. The collaboration with the Philippines Department of Tourism adds cultural significance to this endeavor, showcasing the nation’s landscapes while amplifying her advocacy for empowerment.
Breaking Barriers Through Movement
At 52 years old, Natalie continues to defy stereotypes, proving that ambition and determination know no age limits. Project 1000 is her way of demonstrating that anyone, regardless of age or background, can set ambitious goals and achieve them.
What makes this year’s Project 1000 even more special is the inclusion of an all-female support crew, underscoring her mission to empower young girls and women worldwide.
“Bringing awareness to issues facing girls and women around the world and the importance of physical activity is a cause so close to my heart,” Natalie shares.
Championing Social Causes Through Project 1000
While Natalie’s endurance is remarkable, Project 1000 is also about shining a spotlight on causes she’s passionate about. Her runs serve as platforms to advocate for gender equality, body positivity, and empowering girls through movement.
This time, the funds raised will support multiple charities, both locally and internationally, including the Save the Children Girls Impact Fund. Lisa Aubrey, Director of Regional Fundraising at Save the Children UK, commends Natalie’s efforts:
We’re incredibly grateful to Natalie for embarking on such a courageous journey in support of women and girls through the Girls’ Impact Fund. The money raised from Natalie’s extraordinary fundraising challenge will allow Save the Children to drive forward children’s rights and gender equality. We’re determined to help every child become who they want to be and by listening to girls about the challenges they face every day, we can work with them to make sure their needs are heard.
Natalie will visit local schools, orphanages, and shelters during the run, providing scholarships and support to women and children in need. Her on-the-ground engagement ensures that Project 1000 leaves a tangible impact.
Reflecting on the First Project 1000
Natalie’s first Project 1000 in 2024 was nothing short of extraordinary. Running from Thailand to Singapore over 1,000 kilometers, she endured extreme heat and physical challenges to complete the journey. This effort raised significant funds for the GRLS initiative, supporting women and girls globally through sports.
Our previous coverage dives into her incredible journey and the impact she made: Natalie Dau’s 1,000 km Run from Thailand to Singapore.
Community Engagement and Support
One of the hallmarks of Project 1000 is its emphasis on community involvement. Over the coming months, Natalie and her team will welcome individuals and organisations to join the initiative. From sponsorship opportunities to direct donations, there are many ways to support this cause.
If you’re inspired to contribute, donations can be made here.
Why This Matters
Natalie’s journey may be a personal achievement, but it stands as a profound metaphor for life’s challenges and the resilience required to face them. Although she has completed 1,000 km before, embarking on this second Project 1000 is no less daunting. In fact, it underscores a deeper truth: even familiar paths demand courage, preparation, and the willingness to confront new obstacles.
This lesson extends far beyond running. Just as no two ultramarathons are the same, neither are the challenges we face in life. Each brings its own unique hardships, whether it’s addressing systemic issues like gender inequality, navigating personal struggles, or tackling global concerns like mental health and body positivity.
Natalie’s commitment reminds us that even past victories don’t guarantee an easier road ahead—they simply equip us to face the next challenge with greater strength.
Her efforts serve as a powerful call to action for communities to unite—not just to celebrate her incredible feats, but to recognise the broader issues her run represents. Movement, both literal and metaphorical, has the capacity to spark change. It reminds us that progress, whether in personal growth or societal transformation, requires unwavering effort, even when the journey feels repetitive or exhausting.
Natalie’s second 1,000 km run challenges us to redefine endurance—not merely as a measure of physical ability, but as a testament to the human spirit’s capacity to persist and inspire others to do the same. In a world grappling with inequities and evolving norms, her run is not just about crossing a finish line. It’s a profound reminder that the work of change is never complete, and every step forward holds significance.
Join the Journey
As Natalie prepares for her second 1,000 km challenge, she exemplifies that extraordinary feats are achievable at any age with determination and support. Whether you’re inspired by her resilience, her advocacy, or her commitment to uniting communities, there’s no denying that Natalie Dau is leaving an indelible mark.
Stay tuned to RunSociety for updates on Natalie’s inspiring journey and other stories that celebrate the spirit of running.
