LEWISTON – Runner Mike Brooks’ effort to run 500 miles in 10 days ended 9 miles shy of his goal. Back pain stopped the 63-year-old’s marathon at noon Saturday after running 491 miles.

The Auburn runner had been racing for 10 days to raise money for Casco’s Camp Sunshine, which helps sick children and their families. Brooks had received about $3,000 in donations and was hoping to receive another $3,000 if he completed his goal, according to his Web site, www.tendaysforsunshine.org.

The retired firefighter has run 245 marathons, but nothing this long before. On the first day, he ran 77 times, around a one-mile loop at a New York park. He plans to return home on Sunday.