Phil Gore, a 40‑year‑old Australian ultrarunner, has been hospitalised after doctors drained approximately 500 millilitres of pus from his thigh following a 152‑hour solo backyard ultra attempt.
After experiencing ongoing pain in his thigh that did not subside, Gore saw a doctor earlier this week. Medical staff made a 12cm incision to remove the fluid, an amount roughly equivalent to a pint, according to accounts of the treatment. Gore said he had simply felt that he “just didn’t quite feel right,” prompting him to seek help.
Illness and treatment
The drainage procedure came after Gore completed an extraordinary endurance effort last month in which he ran more than 1,000km during a solo backyard ultra. Reports of his on‑course nutrition noted an unconventional mix that included Nerds sweets, meat pies, Coco Pops and a cheeseburger during the attempt. Officials have not provided further medical details about the cause of the infection or his current prognosis.
Background and context
Gore’s recent performance drew attention for its duration and distance; the 152‑hour solo push placed him among notable long‑distance runners who have attempted self‑paced backyard ultra formats. The subsequent hospitalisation underscores the physical toll such prolonged exertion can place on athletes and the importance of seeking prompt medical evaluation when unusual or persistent pain occurs.
No additional information about Gore’s recovery timeline or planned future events has been released at this time.