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Championing David’s Path to Success — An Elite Kiwi Athlete’s Winter Games Dream!

  • Latest and Final Update: Urgent Support Needed for this Year’s Winter Season and for Upcoming Championships!

      11 March 2026

    Due to the lack of financial support and backing from organisations and companies, they are turning my request down. As a result, I have unfortunately missed the deadlines to participate in the Virtus Open Alpine Ski Championships in Tarvisio, Italy, and in Kitzbühel, Austria, events for which I was hoping to represent our country.

    Regardless of this, due to the fact that I have now missed the deadline for the final European Winter event held in Gourette, France, for the Virtus International Alpine Skiing event schedule, and due to the fact that I haven’t fulfilled the financial requirement to compete in Gourette, France.

    Consequently, I have failed to meet the requirements to compete at the Virtus FIS-sanctioned Alpine Ski Championships in Gourette, France. That said, I have decided to save the current amount raised and am still seeking to raise the remaining amount required to put towards my participation in the upcoming NZ Nationals, which could be the same situation as last year, when the year was so unpredictable. Notably, it is of great disappointment that I cannot participate internationally this year, due to the fact that I have failed to secure the said amount to do so, and it has pushed back my schedule of securing full funding from HPSNZ, as it is vitally required for me to participate internationally and to bring back a medal as such.

    Finally, I would be grateful if you could provide any information as to where I could make further approaches for funding.

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  • Urgent: Final Push – The Last Leg of My International Alpine Skiing Campaign for 2026!

      18 February 2026

    I am urgently seeking financial support to enable my participation in the upcoming Virtus-sanctioned alpine skiing competition in Gourette, France, taking place from 17 to 21 March. A remaining funding amount of $15,000.00 must be secured by Friday 20th February at 3.00 pm at the very latest for me to confirm my participation. This funding is required to cover essential expenses, including international travel, accommodation, physiotherapy support, and the engagement of a coach who will also fulfil the role of team manager.

    That said, this competition represents my final opportunity to compete internationally before 2027, which has been my clear intention. Without participation, I would be required to wait until next year and redirect my focus to the New Zealand Para National Championships during this year’s winter season in Queenstown, resulting in a significant interruption to my international competition pathway at a critical stage of my high-performance development.

    Should the remaining funding not be secured by the stated deadline, I will regrettably be unable to represent New Zealand at this international event, adversely affecting my international results and progression toward High Performance Sport New Zealand recognition and financial support.

    Consequently, I respectfully invite your support, and would be sincerely appreciative if you were able to share this appeal within your professional networks, alongside your own contacts, to assist in broadening its reach.

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  • Urgent Fundraising Update: Remaining Support Required for International Competition!

      7 February 2026

    I want to extend my sincere gratitude to all those who have supported me financially since last year. The funds received have enabled me to purchase FIS-regulated skis, a helmet, and ski goggles, all mandatory requirements for Virtus competition and essential for safety and compliance.

    It was vital to first secure adequate financial backing to ensure that full training and competition would be sustainable before committing to international events. Due to insufficient funding, I have regrettably missed three major international competitions in Tarvisio, Kitzbühel, and Park City Mountain. Thus, it has had serious implications for my sporting pathway, as international competition is essential for strengthening eligibility for High Performance Sport New Zealand funding.

    Consequently, I am seeking to compete at the upcoming Virtus-sanctioned alpine skiing event in Gourette, France from 17th to 21st March. Thereby, to make my attendance possible, I urgently require $15,000.00 to cover flights, accommodation, the support of my physiotherapist, and the engagement of a coach as my team manager. Without securing this remaining amount, participation will not be possible.

    Overall, I respectfully invite you to donate and support this campaign, as every contribution directly enables my return to international competition and progression toward representing New Zealand on the world stage. Finally, I would also be deeply grateful if you could share this appeal within your networks.

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  • Urgent Funding Update: Remaining Support Required!

      1 February 2026

    Tēnā koe (Hi) Everyone,

    Thank - you all for your generous support so far; much appreciated.

    First and foremost, just a quick update to share that I am still urgently seeking to raise the remaining amount to reach $20,000.00 in order to compete in the Huntsman Cup Alpine Skiing, a FIS-sanctioned event scheduled from Tuesday 10 February to Friday 13 February. Notably, Virtus has sanctioned the Huntsman Cup for the second consecutive year as an annual FIS-recognised event.

    Consequently, in order for me to compete, the full funding amount must be secured by Monday 2 February at 2.00 pm at the very latest, so that I am able to confirm my participation in the event.

    Finally, I would be sincerely grateful for any support or introductions within your networks that may assist me in meeting this funding requirement within the required timeframe. If you are in a position to offer sponsorship, corporate support, or a professional introduction, I would greatly appreciate you getting in touch via davidee@outlook.co.nz.

    Thank - you for your continued support.

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  • Urgent Funding Update: Upcoming International Competition!

      28 January 2026

    First and foremost, due to the financial requirement of securing $20,000.00 to compete internationally, I am no longer able to compete at the Virtus Open Alpine Ski Championships in Kitzbühel, Austria, having missed the registration deadline, which closed on Tuesday 20th January 2026.

    Furthermore, I am seeking to compete in the Huntsman Cup Alpine Skiing, a FIS-sanctioned event scheduled from Tuesday 10th February to Friday 13th February. Notably, Virtus has sanctioned the Huntsman Cup for the second consecutive year as an annual FIS-recognised event. In order for me to compete, the full funding amount must be secured prior to the registration deadline. Consequently, achieving a medal at this event is a critical requirement for strengthening my international record, including medals from the 2013 Special Olympics World Winter Games, and for enabling a formal application for High Performance Sport New Zealand funding once eligibility is confirmed for the 2030 Paralympic Winter Games.

    Overall, I would be sincerely grateful for any support or introductions within your networks that may assist me in meeting this funding requirement within the required timeframe. If you are in a position to offer sponsorship, corporate support, or a professional introduction, I would greatly appreciate being contacted at davidee@outlook.co.nz.

    Thank - you for your continued support.

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  • Urgent Final Call: Update to Secure Funding for New Zealand Ski Representation!

      20 January 2026

    First and foremost, thank you to all who have supported me to date; your generosity and confidence in my preparation for competing at the upcoming Virtus Open Alpine Ski Championships are sincerely appreciated.

    At this juncture, being in between jobs has placed a significant financial strain on me personally. Moreso, I am now required to raise the remaining $18,000.00. Without securing this funding, I will regrettably be unable to travel and represent New Zealand on the international stage, nor fully meet the selection requirements for the 2030 Paralympic Winter Games.

    Consequently, due to current funding constraints, I am no longer able to compete at the Virtus Open Alpine Ski Championships in Italy. Notwithstanding this, to remain within my recognised high-performance pathway, I must secure the remaining funding no later than 4:00 pm today in order to confirm my ability to compete at the Austria tournament. Once the merger allowing Virtus athletes to compete is formally finalised, and eligibility to apply for High Performance Sport New Zealand funding is confirmed, I am required to secure a medal at this competition. That said, such an outcome would sit alongside my existing international achievements, including medals from the 2013 Special Olympics World Winter Games.

    Finally, any support at this stage, no matter the amount, would make a tangible difference and help ensure I am able to stand on the start line and represent our country with pride.

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  • Final Call: Update to Secure Funding for New Zealand Ski Representation!

      4 January 2026

    Thank - you to all who have supported me to date; your generosity and confidence in my preparation for competing at the upcoming Virtus Open Alpine Ski Championships are sincerely appreciated.

    In order to formally confirm my participation in two priority international competitions, namely the Virtus Open Alpine Ski Championships in Tarvisio, Italy on 30 – 31 January 2026, followed by competition in Kitzbühel, Austria on 4–7 February 2026, the remaining $50,000 must be secured by Thursday 8th January 2026.

    That said, failure to achieve this funding target by the stated deadline will regrettably preclude my ability to compete and represent New Zealand at the Virtus Open Alpine Ski Championships. In light of these events, it would hold a firm significance within my recognised high-performance pathway, providing vital international exposure, performance benchmarking, and competition validation. Moreso, they constitute a critical step towards eligibility to compete at the Paralympic Winter Games in 2030.

    In light of the above, securing this funding by the stated deadline is indispensable to enable continued participation within this pathway. Finally, I will execute all preparation, training, and competitive requirements in strict accordance with international performance standards and governance expectations, thereby ensuring full readiness for these priority events.

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  • Latest Update: Urgent Support Needed for Upcoming Championships!

      10 December 2025

    Thank you all for your generous support. Your kind messages and contributions have helped me stay committed to my training and continue striving toward my goals in competitive alpine skiing, including my pursuit of international success. With your encouragement, I have been able to dedicate myself to my training, while maintaining the focus and determination required as I prepare to compete at my best in the upcoming Virtus Open Alpine Ski Championships in Tarvisio, Italy, and Kitzbühel, Austria.

    Skiing is a sport that demands discipline, resilience, and precision, and each race requires strength and the confidence that comes from knowing I have a community standing behind me. My journey is far from over, and I now need your support more than ever as I work to secure my position at the Paralympic Winter Games in 2030, once the selection regulations are finalised, as they are currently being confirmed following the signing of a memorandum of understanding with Virtus International.

    Every contribution makes a meaningful difference. Additionally, it would be great if you could simply share my page, as your support helps me stay on the slopes, refine my skills, and pursue excellence on the international stage. If you know of any sponsors who may be able to provide support, I would be grateful if you could connect me with them at davidee@outlook.co.nz.

    Together, we can build the momentum needed to reach the Paralympic Winter Games in 2030.

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  • Latest Update: NZ Para Nationals and Upcoming Championships!

      5 December 2025

    Just an update that the NZ Para Nationals, where I was scheduled to compete in the Giant Slalom, was officially cancelled due to a lack of snow. As this was an FIS-regulated event, a minimum snow depth is required for competition, and unfortunately this condition has not been met.

    In light of this, I am now planning to compete at the upcoming Virtus Open Alpine Ski Championships in Tarvisio, Italy, on 30–31 January 2026, and at Kitzbühel, Austria, on 4–7 February 2026, where I will be the only athlete competing in Alpine Skiing under this classification. For further information on these events, please refer to the Virtus website: https://virtus.sport/eventsvs.

    Consequently, I urgently need to receive the full amount of $50,000.00 in order to compete at these two events. If I win a medal at an international level, I may then request to be considered for a fully fledged HPSNZ scholarship to represent New Zealand the following year. Thus, this will enable me to prepare for the official reintegration and inclusion to compete at the Paralympic Winter Games 2030 under this category. I am fully committed to my training and to keeping myself in peak physical condition to compete internationally at these two vital events.

    That said, without sufficient funding, it would be a significant loss of opportunity and investment, and I may be unable to compete due to potential strict selection regulations or eligibility criteria. However, if I'm unable to attend these events money raised will enable me to compete at the following NZ Para Nationals.

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  • Latest Update: NZ Para Nationals and Appreciation of All Your Support So Far!

      27 August 2025
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    As I prepare to represent New Zealand on the international stage as a Virtus para-athlete, every moment of training and every bit of support, including financial contributions, counts toward this journey of dedication and excellence.

    First and foremost, I sincerely thank everyone who has contributed so far, including Snow Centre Newmarket for sponsoring me with a subsidised discount and ski servicing, as well as my current sponsored hotel for invaluable accommodation support. Moreover, these contributions are instrumental in my development as an elite Virtus para-athlete.

    Notably, the NZ Para Nationals, for which I would like to compete, were initially scheduled for August but were postponed twice due to the fact that the event requirements must be complied with and upheld under the relevant regulations, as the event is sanctioned by FIS (International Ski and Snowboard Federation). Nonetheless, I had to recently travel to Queenstown to continue intensive ski training, maximising every moment despite setbacks and limited preparation.

    Furthermore, my focus is now on representing New Zealand at the Virtus International Tournament in Austria, alongside other competitions across Europe during their winter, which is indeed our summer. Thus, with the relevant regulations uncertain in order to compete at the international level, rigorous preparation is essential to cover all contingencies, whilst ensuring I am fully ready should a regulation be implemented.

    Consequently, training in the South Island allows me to fully utilise the winter season at ski resorts while enjoying the natural beauty. If the NZ Para Nationals go ahead, I would like to return to compete. That said, securing accommodation is complex due to the presence of international travellers and the high cost of living, which further impacts Kiwi athletes, including myself. Moreover, the FIS and Virtus memorandum highlights the vital importance of inclusion in winter sports: https://www.fis-ski.com/inside-fis/news/2024-25/fis-and-virtus-sign-landmark-memorandum-of-understanding-to-advance-inclusion-in-winter-sports.

    Attached is a letter of support for your kind consideration for any future sponsors or funders.

    In light of the above, given limited sponsorship, financial support is crucial. Any donation, no matter the amount, makes a significant difference, and introductions to potential funders are warmly welcomed.

    Lastly, your support enables me to continue training, competing, and representing New Zealand at the highest level.

    Thanks once again for your support.

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  • Latest Update: NZ Para Nationals and Ongoing Intensive Ski Training Regime!

      13 August 2025

    Due to the lack of snow, the NZ Para Nationals Championships for the Giant Slalom, which I am scheduled to participate in, has been rescheduled to Monday, 25th August. Notably, with limited financial support, I am still determining whether I can return to Queenstown to participate, as training and accommodation costs place a significant strain on my budget, given that it has been rescheduled twice.

    As an athlete who has transitioned from Special Olympics NZ to Virtus International under Paralympics NZ, it is vital for me to source my own sponsorship, as no other funders, including the Lions Club, Rotary Club, or Lions Foundation, can assist at this late stage. Furthermore, the Lions Foundation only supports registered not-for-profit organisations, and I have been awaiting corporate responses without success.

    Consequently, I am allocating a substantial portion of my sponsorship funding and remain keen to minimise costs. Thus, your support would maximise every opportunity, including the potential to secure HPSNZ sponsorship upon returning with a medal from the Virtus International Games, and continue honing my skills.

    Overall, your support would not only allow me to compete at my best but also enable me to attend these important events, which are invaluable in preparing for representing New Zealand internationally.

    Finally, I am genuinely appreciative of the support already provided, which has been instrumental in enabling my training and participation thus far.

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  • Urgent Financial Support Required to Attend the NZ Open Para National Champs and for my Intensive Ski Training Regime!

      30 July 2025

    In light of my upcoming competition season, I am urgently seeking to raise at least $20,000 to support my continued high-performance ski training in Queenstown. Besides, this financial support is vital for me to enable access to world-class coaching and varied resort terrains, both of which are crucial for my development and preparation ahead of the Virtus International Games early next year. Henceforth, this opportunity is not only vital for my athletic progression but also instrumental in strengthening my standing as a potential HPSNZ-supported elite athlete.

    Notably, I have been selected to compete at the New Zealand Open Para National Champs at Cardrona from Wednesday 6th August to Friday 15th August. In order to be adequately prepared, where I need to travel out of Auckland soon for it. Here is the link for more info on it: https://www.snowsports.co.nz/events/2025-events-calendar-and-registration/cardrona-wanaka-fis-tech-njc-2/.

    Hence, this competition will provide me with valuable experience on home ground and help solidify my readiness for international representation. Therefore, your support at this critical moment would empower me to compete with confidence and excellence.

    Consequently, I am seeking financial support to cover three to four weeks of accommodation and travel. I must confirm my travel plans with urgency to ensure my participation.

    Thank - you for your generosity in supporting me as I pursue my pathway as an elite athlete.

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