Sparkling finish to 444 run

author avatar
It was hugs all round for Ben ‘Mino’ Welch on Friday. Photo by Jordan Townrow
There were plenty of cheers as Ben Welch crossed the line, right on 4.44pm. Photos: Jordan Townrow

Ben ‘Mino’ Welch marked the end of a 380km — a four day, four hour, 44 minute — journey of a lifetime.

Crossing the line at Echuca’s Victoria Park on Friday, March 7, at 4.44pm, Ben was met by thousands of supporters and the arms of some of his nearest and dearest.

Ben embraces his wife, Jayde, at the finish line. Photo by Jordan Townrow

Beginning the run on Monday, March 3 in Mildura, Ben covered some serious kilometres on his Murray marathon, making his way through places like Robinvale, Swan Hill, Cohuna and Gunbower.

Students from schools and preschools around the region painted their campuses blue in honour of the run, hosting ‘wear it blue’ days and fundraisers.

Ben runs with his mum, Jackie Welch, from Gunbower to Echuca. Photo by Jordan Townrow

Day five saw Ben cover the final 54km from Gunbower to Echuca, reserving the day to run with his mum, Jackie.

More from Friday’s finish line feat in Wednesday’s Riv.

The crowd at Victoria Park Echuca, including family and friends. Photo by Jordan Townrow
Onlookers fill Vic Park from 4pm to see Ben finish. Photo by Jordan Townrow
Locals gathered along the roadside to cheer Ben and his support crew home. Photo by Jordan Townrow
A remarkable show of support every step of the way. Photo by Jordan Townrow
Crowds flocked to Victoria Park to cheer Ben home. Photo by Jordan Townrow