Local lad Tom set himself an extraordinary challenge in support of charity — and in doing so, created a brand-new endurance test. Determined to raise money for the Looseheadz Foundation, Tom mapped out a route linking all eight Deben Inns pubs, creating what is now known as the “Deben Inns Ultra”.
Tom successfully completed the 53km ultra marathon, running from Wilford Bridge through Suffolk before finishing at The Butt and Oyster in just seven hours.
The challenge pushed him through long distances, tough climbs, and demanding mental battles. The route included a testing 13km stretch between The Ship at Levington and The Westerfield Swan, before ending with a scenic — but brutal — final few kilometres along the River Orwell.
“I wanted to see how far my physical and mental limits really are,” Tom said. “This was the furthest I’ve ever run, and it felt like the perfect way to prepare for what’s coming next.”
Tom is raising money for the Looseheadz Foundation, a charity dedicated to tackling poor mental health within the rugby community.
“I’ve grown up playing rugby and I know how important clubs are in bringing people together,” he explained. “Looseheadz help break the stigma around mental health in the sport and make sure players, coaches, and clubs have access to the support they need. I believe every club should be able to offer that extra level of care.”
Despite expecting the climbs through Ipswich to be the hardest part, Tom said the real challenge came at the very end.
“My legs and mind were screaming at me to stop during the final three kilometres before the Butt and Oyster,” he said. “Even with the sunset views along the River Orwell, it was a real test.”
After seven hours on his feet, the finish was celebrated in classic fashion.
“I ordered the 8oz beef burger and a pint of Guinness — it was the perfect combination to end the day.”
The run marks the latest step in Tom’s endurance journey as he prepares for a major charity bike ride across New Zealand later this year. Deben Inns have been fully behind Tom’s challenge and fundraising efforts — and have confirmed that anyone inspired to take on the Deben Inns Ultra themselves is encouraged to get in touch.
You can support Tom’s fundraising for the Looseheadz Foundation by donating via JustGiving:
https://www.justgiving.com/page/mitchmovesnz
You can also follow his journey on Instagram at @mitchmovesnz, where he’s documenting his training and challenges.
