TWO Barry expats are hoping to breeze past some rocks, cross a harbour bridge, sail past a pool to raise funds for Noah’s Ark.

Dan Debono and Jacob Rudman are preparing to run the Blackmore’s Sydney Marathon this September , taking in other iconic Australian landmarks such as the Opera House, in aid of the ongoing appeal at the Children’s hospital of Wales, in Cardiff.

The pair were inspired to tackle the 26.2 mile distance Down Under after missing out on sponsoring Joshua Bell and Nino Zeraschi when they and their team of fellow cyclists raised much-needed funds for the charity in May this year.

Dan said: “Nino’s daughter being admitted into the hospital plays a big part but also my best friend back in Barry Joshua Bell's young boy Ralphy was admitted to the hospital with meningitis and the hospital managed to save Ralphy’s life which is the major reason for this fundraising.

“I was born and bred in Barry until February 2011 when I left for Australia and have lived here ever since. Moved to Oz initially travelling and just to get away from Barry for a while and fell in love with the place. The weather and lifestyle is so good here and it helps with the training being able to run on the beaches and the coastal walks. It’s such a beautiful place.

“Training has been so hard as we've only given ourselves 11 weeks to train, but the fact that we have a reason to complete the race spurs us on greatly. Many people have told us they will sponsor us a substantial amount should we complete the race so failure is not an option. We’re looking forward to running across the Harbour Bridge, past the Opera house and down to Bondi beach. Three of the biggest landmarks in Sydney incorporated into one race is amazing.

“The downside is how many parties and festivals we will have to miss out on leading up to the event as we need to be strict with our training and diet.

“We have set a fundraising target of $3,000 which is obtainable as we both have great, supportive friends and family but of course the more money raised the better and random donations would be appreciated as it’s for such a good cause.”

Sponsors can visit the duo’s Justgiving pages by searching either Dan Debono or Jacob Rudman.

Alternatively, visit Marco’s Cafe, Barry Island, and donate via Nino or Marco Zeraschi.