Scott Selwood, a 35-year-old assistant coach at Collingwood, recently embarked on a solo marathon in memory of his late brothers, Adam and Troy Selwood. In February, the Selwood family suffered a tragic loss. Twins Adam and Troy, sons of Scott, turned to suicide just as their mother’s career took off. Scott decided to run the marathon to help him grieve. He knew he wanted to pay tribute to their legacy while supporting a cause that is very important to him.
Initially, that running goal was to run South Africa’s Big Five Marathon with his brother Adam. After the sudden death of his brother, he understandably pulled out from the trip. He dedicated his time to supporting Carrie Bickmore’s Beanies 4 Brain Cancer fundraiser. As proof, he even completed a self-supported solo marathon around Albert Park in Melbourne! This event became a memorial to his fallen brothers. It was intended to help raise money for brain cancer research.
Scott stayed on pace with an impressive 3 hour 2 minutes finish time for the full 42.2 km race. Alongside Isaac Smith, who took his place in the South Africa marathon, Scott’s efforts have collectively raised over $55,000 for Bickmore’s charity. This grantmaking initiative is a testament to the Selwood family’s deep commitment to ensuring that powerful, positive change can take root, even when times are challenging.
Scott, of course, had been inspired by his late brother Adam, and Carrie Bickmore with her late husband Greg. That inspiration drove his decision to run in support of charity. These numbers represent hope, fortitude, and a refusal to succumb to fear. Scott shared that as an artist, being able to channel his energy into such a crucial cause has been a healing experience.
“Although I still feel the deep pain of losing him, channelling my energy into a cause like the one Carrie has created feels like a meaningful way to make a difference,” – Scott Selwood
Scott’s brother Joel, who has been a pillar of support during this challenging time, praised him publicly on social media. He understood the emotional gravity undergirding Scott’s decision to run and plowed ahead, telling Scott that he admired him for his bravery.
“You would have been forgiven if you weren’t up for it today brother,” – Joel Selwood
After her husband lost his battle with the disease, Aussie presenter Carrie Bickmore started Beanies 4 Brain Cancer. At the celebration she shared emotional recollections of her deep appreciation towards Scott and all the benefactors. She underscored the unique role community plays in addressing health challenges.
“To everyone who has donated… a very big THANK YOU. This is an incredible cause and with incredible people,” – Carrie Bickmore
Marathon runner Isaac Smith of South Africa ran the race in order to raise support for Scott. McLachlan noted the Selwood family’s longstanding and genuine dedication to philanthropy. He expressed his appreciation for the outstanding contributions Scott and his brothers have made to our state.
“There wasn’t really a question because they’ve done so many amazing things for so many people,” – Isaac Smith
Scott’s journey through grief has led him to not only honor Adam’s legacy but contribute positively to society. He reflected on his motivations for running.
“My brother was always there to help others, and continuing his legacy, even for a different cause, feels incredibly important,” – Scott Selwood
This charity marathon is about so much more than raising money. It is exquisitely cautionary, compellingly warning us to remember resilience through grief. Scott Selwood advocates for change to honor the memories of his brothers. He advocates for mental health awareness and inspires others who are struggling through the same journey he lived.
