Meet Ryan Besso, the ultrarunner with heart - Muscular Dystrophy Queensland
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Meet Ryan Besso, the ultrarunner with heart

In November 2024, Ryan Besso will be Making a Move for Muscular Dystrophy Queensland by running the Kosci100, a 100km trail running event up the summit of Australia’s highest point, Mt Kosciuszko, and fundraising to support people living with neuromuscular conditions.

Ryan is taking on this incredible challenge in honour of his best mate Dan, who he says is an amazing bloke who lives with Myotonic Dystrophy. Dan is a constant inspiration to Ryan, always showing him what can be achieved even when the odds are stacked against you. Ryan’s event will be challenging, but as he says, pales in comparison to what he thinks Dan faces every day. Dan’s determination is Ryan’s motivation, and he plans on crushing this event for him, his mate.

Ryan Tile Muscular Dystrophy Queensland

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From Nerd to Ultra-Marathoner: Ryan Besso’s 100km Race for a Friend with Muscular Dystrophy

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Growing up, Ryan wasn’t your typical sporty kid. His family found joy in other passions – his mum’s artistry through fashion design and painting, and dad’s knack for mechanics. Ryan’s childhood was a whirlwind of engine parts and time spent in the workshop, while he immersed himself in books, video games, and sci-fi. He says he has always been a ‘nerd at heart’, and as he ventured into his teens, his interests led him into the world of PC gaming, pop culture, and heroes he tried to emulate.  

Fast forward to his late teens, and Ryan unexpectedly found himself in a completely different path from what he envisioned. While his natural talent seemed destined for a career in IT, life had other plans. A job selling rehabilitation equipment took him in a direction that has become his lifelong career for the past 20 years. He now works with specialist complex rehabilitation equipment with Aidacare in Sydney, and couldn’t be prouder of the work that he does.

Then came a twist – an invitation to join a 20km obstacle course with some of his closest friends. A triathlete friend convinced him that with a bit of training, he could do it. Through his encouragement, he realised he had the drive to push himself further than he ever thought possible. Over time, Ryan found himself competing in marathons, triathlons, and even dressing up as Superman for a charity event. What started as a new adventure became a passion for not just running, but for pushing past his limits and discovering inner strength.

Some of Ryan’s favourite running memories come from a local charity event, Run for the Hills, where he dressed as Superman. Hearing kids yell, “There’s Superman!” as he raced by remains one of his most cherished experiences. Over time, Ryan graduated to triathlons, competing in three 70.3 IRONMAN events in Western Sydney. These six-hour races taught him the power of perseverance – when faced with obstacles, his inner drive asked, “Is the job done? No? Then you keep going.”

Ryan’s journey into endurance sports has now led him to ultra-marathons, and this November, he’ll be taking on the 100km in Mt. Kosciusko – a massive challenge. But this time, it’s personal.

Ultra Trail 50 start Muscular Dystrophy Queensland
Ryan at the start of the Ultra Trail

 

Ultra Trail 50 end Muscular Dystrophy Queensland
Ryan at the end of the Ultra Trail

 

Superman final year Muscular Dystrophy Queensland
Superman Ryan

In 2006, Ryan met Dan. He wasn’t just a friend – he became one of his best mates over the years. Despite different backgrounds, Dan and Ryan found common ground, sharing everything from footy games to food pilgrimages. Dan introduced him to Haymarket’s Happy Chef, where their love for their soups became a ritual every time he visited Sydney. Their friendship grew, and so did Ryan’s admiration for Dan, especially when he faced the toughest battle of his life. 

Dan was diagnosed with myotonic muscular dystrophy. Ryan remembers the phone call vividly – the world seemed to stop. But Dan’s courage and strength in the face of this diagnosis left Ryan in awe. Dan’s love for his son, Flynn, and his unwavering determination to live life to the fullest as a single father is nothing short of inspiring. Every time Ryan faces a challenge in his runs, he thinks of Dan. His daily battles are a constant reminder of what real strength looks like.  

That’s why Ryan’s chosen to run the 100km race this November in Dan’s honour. The mental and physical endurance Ryan thinks he will need is nothing compared to what he feels Dan faces every day. This race isn’t just for Ryan – it’s for Dan, for Flynn, and for every family affected by muscular dystrophy.  

Through this journey, Ryan hopes to raise awareness and funds for the fight against muscular dystrophy and other neuromuscular conditions. Dan’s strength continues to push him forward, and Ryan wants to show him just how much his resolve means to him. This race is for Dan, Ryan’s mate.  

You can support Ryan and Dan by donating to Ryan’s page below. 

Support Ryan and Dan

By supporting Ryan’s 100km race and contributing to this cause, you’re helping turn the tide for individuals and families affected by muscular dystrophy. Your gift, no matter the size, will make a meaningful impact.

Plus, find out more about holding your own Make a Move fundraiser or how to nominate Muscular Dystrophy Queensland for another event at mdqld.org.au/fundraising-and-events/ 

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