Ultra-distance runner breaks record

Kim Allen has broken the world record for running without sleep. Photo / Greg Bowker

Ultra-distance runner Kim Allen has met her dual goals of breaking the world record for running without sleep and surpassing the 500 kilometre mark.

She passed the previous women's record of 486km shortly before 6pm today at Auckland Domain, and reached the 500km goal just over two hours later.

The 47-year-old started her quest at 6am on Thursday, and had slowed to a walk in the final laps.

Kim Allen has broken the world record for running without sleep. Photo / Greg Bowker

Supporter Michael Rodliffe said the 486km record passed with no fanfare, as they were saving celebration for the 500km mark.

"We kept it quiet, we haven't actually told her yet,'' he said.

"We didn't want her to give her an excuse to stop. In two hours time when she's finished the 500, we'll celebrate.''

Kim Allan near the start of her attempt to beat the women's ultra-distance-without-sleep running world record at the Auckland Domain. Photo / Christine Cornege

Event co-manager Mark Stone said when she eventually passed the 500km mark _ 86 hours, 11 minutes and 9 seconds after she started _ she was overwhelmed and found it hard to believe it was over.

Her family took her home to catch up on sleep, and would monitor her through the night, he said.

Ms Allen, a mother-of-four from Tuakau, was running to support the New Zealand Spinal Trust.