Marathon Runner / Former Politician

Pat Farmer has transformed his interest of ultra-marathon running into a career – setting and breaking world records at events globally, while simultaneously raising funds for charities and medical research programs.

A high profile leader, acknowledged for an enviable media following, positive “brand" awareness, and the influence to unite and inspire action for a vision or solution.  Pat spent nine years as a successful federal politician, supported by an internationally renowned athletic career that transitioned into motivational and inspirational public speaking engagements.

Raised brand awareness for sport and sponsors, gaining a reputation for entertaining addresses; with his trademark combination of enthusiasm, drive and commitment.  His open communicative leadership style creates a team vision of growth, harmony and a culture of success.

On 19 February 2012, after 20,919 agonising kilometres, Pat completed The Greatest Run in History – an incredible trek from the North Pole to the South Pole.  After completing the North Pole he ran through Canada, USA, Mexico, Panama, and the Darien Jungle; the deserts of Peru and Chile prior to commencing the final leg of running in the Antarctic on his way to the South Pole.  When Pat completed his run, he had travelled through 14 countries, completing two marathons per day with no days off, for a total of 10 months and 13 days.

On 17 January 2013 Pat completed a run through Vietnam. The first man to run from the North to the South, 2600kms, and then jetskiied 400kms up the Mekong Delta into Ho Chi Minh City to complete his new record.

Apart from these amazing achievements, Pat's aim was and still remains to raise awareness about clean water and sanitation problems in the world which in turn is greatly assisting the Red Cross through donations. 

Pat has a tremendous story to share about his “dash" as well as conveying the message of not allowing any obstacle to get in the way of your dreams.  Below a diary entry (after completing the North Pole): “Out of the freezer and into the frying pan!  I've moved from 20 km per day to 80 km per day and now my body is shouting loud "Stop, stop doing this to me!" But I've heard this all before and the only way I will achieve this epic goal is if I listen to my mind, not my body. Of course I hurt, of course my hands and feet are swollen, naturally I have blisters, bruising and stomach cramps. After all, it's not every day that you go from -40C to +40C. From ice to bitumen, snow shoes to joggers or dehydrated food that tastes like hot plastic to spaghetti and salmon fish cakes."

Presentation Topics Include

•  Inspiration
  
• Motivation
  
• Leadership
  
• Government/Politics
  
• Risk Management
  
• Goal Setting/Planning
  
• Overcoming Obstacles
  
• Effective Teamwork

Testimonials

“Pat Farmer is an incredible motivational speaker.   Pat has spoken at two events for me in the past. He has an extremely engaging and humble style that appeals to the audience.   His remarkable determination is best summed up by his statement, ‘You can do anything you want to do in life, if you don't want to do it you will just find an excuse.’  He challenges audiences to go beyond what they think are possible.   This is backed by his extensive ultra distance achievements prior to the Pole to Pole Run.  The Pole to Pole Run has taken this to a new level.   AT both events that Pat has spoken at, we have had an immediate and dramatic effect on engagement and ‘Can Do'."
Managing Director Alphapharm Pty Ltd

“Pat was the guest speaker at our annual dinner and was nothing short of sensational. Never before have I witnessed someone speak with so much passion and with such an ability to captivate the audience. I’ve been inundated with emails since, commenting on how great Pat was. Pat’s a legend on the road and equally as great as a motivational speaker." 
Former Australian Team Member (distance running) 

“Pat Farmer recently presented to members of our senior leadership team where he shared some of his achievements and challenges, including his recent 'Pole to Pole' run. Pat's presentation style was engaging and compelling, demonstrating a wonderful sense of humour.  Our team were genuinely inspired by Pat's story, and his key messages in relation to the power of believing in yourself, commitment to, breaking down and achieving seemingly insurmountable goals. Pat is an exceptional inspirational speaker whose style and message would resonate with any audience."
Westpac

“Pat Farmer recently was the key note speaker at our Annual Conference; he was so highly anticipated we moved our conference dates to hear from him!  I had followed Pat on the news during his remarkable journey, so I was truly looking forward to hearing from this amazing and selfless man in person.   Pat was a true inspiration, engaged his audience and everyone walked away feeling motivated that they could achieve any goal they have ahead of themselves. Pat was the best motivational speaker that we have experienced in the last few years of our conferences who was appreciated by everyone that attended. A very popular speaker and extremely excellent value."
CEO – Place Estate Agents