For CanToo’s new CEO, Lisa Hresc, a single lap around Sydney’s iconic Bay Run nine years ago was a game-changer. What started as a walk-jog with friends quickly transformed into a lifelong love of running - and now, a deep connection to a community that thrives on challenging itself while challenging cancer.
“My first 7km loop was a revelation,” Lisa recalls. “I couldn’t believe I’d actually done it! That sense of achievement kept me going, and I’ve been running ever since.”
Fast forward to today, and Lisa’s passion for combining health, fitness, and purpose has found the perfect home. As she steps in to lead CanToo through its 20th year, Lisa’s ready to build on the Foundation’s incredible legacy, fuelled by its dual mission: funding groundbreaking early-career cancer research and empowering everyday people to achieve extraordinary things.
“What excites me most about CanToo is the irresistible passion of our community,” Lisa shares. “From our participants to our supporters, everyone is committed to making a real difference. I’m inspired by how we support researchers tackling cancer head-on while helping people overcome their own challenges. It’s such a powerful combination.”
“I’m looking forward to hitting the track with our Half Marathon participants from January,” she says. “Running and chatting along the way is the best form of therapy. It’s a chance to connect, clear your mind, and share the journey.”
When it comes to pre-run prep, Lisa keeps it simple with an English muffin and peanut butter before longer distances. Her playlist? A carefully curated Spotify mix of her favourite tunes, shuffled, for an extra dash of spontaneity.
And while running is a big part of Lisa’s life, she’s equally passionate about exploring new places - especially when there’s an event to train for.
“I love traveling, and I’ve been lucky to combine it with my love of running. Whether it’s a race across Australia or overseas, there’s nothing quite like the energy of a big event.”
“One of my favourite memories is running the 10km in the middle of Athens on the Saturday night before the official Olympic Marathon the next day. It was like the city was one big party and everyone was running through the streets and into the Olympic stadium.”
Lisa at the starting line of the Athens 10KM in 2022.
As Lisa embarks on this new chapter, she’s laser-focused on what makes CanToo so special: the people. “This community is unstoppable. Together, we’re creating a ripple effect - not just in cancer research but in the lives of everyone involved. I can’t wait to see what we’ll accomplish next.”
So, whether you’re training for your first big swim, gearing up for a marathon, or simply looking for inspiration, Lisa invites you to join her in making 2025 a year to remember. After all, challenging yourself and challenging cancer is what CanToo is all about.
