Defying disease to tick off bucket list

AN inspiring Torquay man is set to test his limits by reaching Australia’s highest peak to tick a challenge off his bucket list.

Scott Ashworth, 34, was once on the verge of a VFL umpiring berth and sports administration career, but has battled deterioration of his speech and movement as a result of Huntington’s disease.

He was diagnosed with the rare genetic condition in 2015 and given a timeline of 10-15 years to pursue his dreams.

Mr Ashworth said he wanted to show people there were “no limits” to achieving your dreams — his being standing atop Mt Kosciuszko.

With the help of Geelong disability support charity U & I Inclusions, he will head to the Australian Alps on February 25, determined to complete the 6.5km walk in up to 12 hours.

His mum Wendy Ashworth said Scott was a fighter and would try his heart out to reach the peak.

“It’s fantastic he wants to get out there and do these things,” she said.

“Just about any challenge that’s thrown in his way, he’ll keep trying.”

Completed bucket-list items have so far include seeing snow for the first time and visiting his original hometown of Upwey in the Yarra Ranges, but his horizons are much broader.

The Whitsundays and Scotland, where he wants to visit the famed St Andrews golf links, are the next destinations on Mr Ashworth’s list.

But the sports tragic would also dearly love to see an AFL Grand Final featuring his beloved Demons.

Anyone who would like to assist Mr Ashworth with his bucket-list goals can contact U & I Inclusions on 0436 482 634.