Fundraising to represent New Zealand at the Xterra World Championship in Maui, Hawaii

My name is Seonaigh Conchie. A 48 year old Christchurch mum with a dream.

I’ve spent many years competing in numerous running adventures, and recently competed in the Challenge Wanaka Ironman and the Mooloolaba Half Ironman with great results in both my age category and overall. I love the challenge of all three disciplines, however after competing in the 2015 GodZone event, New Zealand’s toughest Adventure Race over 6 days and 5 nights, I discovered my passion for the off-road component. This was the arena I truly wanted to excel in. Fast forward to July last year, after speaking to my coach Marc Prutton from PT Systems Endurance Sport Coaching, a change of direction in my sport started.

I found myself looking at an event that would take around 6hrs to complete, included a swim/bike & run, but required speed. I had a substantial endurance base, but needed to develop the speed component. The event was Xterra Motatapu in March 2016. Coach went to work on the programmes to prepare for this event and then the hard work and training started. When reading about the event which is considered one of the toughest Xterras in the world, I discovered there was one qualifying spot per age group for the World XTERRA Championships in Maui Hawaii. It was at this point the dream started to develop into a real firm direction. I decided now was my time to qualify for a NZ team and follow through and represent.

I sat down and discussed it with my very long suffering, but amazing partner Paul and son Jack who totally supported me in my dream. Paul lives in the kitchen where he tries to keep up with my never ending need for food. I eat a lot of food, and constantly! They often sacrifice time and activities so I can fulfil my passion and without them and their support, my journey would be a lot more difficult than it is.

I’ve set my sights on being the best I can be and competing as a fit and healthy individual by having a holistic approach to everything I do, eating, training & working. The journey has not been without its challenges, including a health issue after a race late December 2015, but with a dedicated team of people; My Acupuncturist from Kisen Acupuncture, Chiropractor from The Muscle Joint, the amazing team at Health 2000 Rangiora, my GP and a very talented Sports Doctor, the situation was managed and did not impact on my overall health or preparation for the event.

I have been so very fortunate to have been introduced to some very talented sports people in my community who quietly go about what they do best and they have been an integral part of me improving in all arenas. My friends from the Masters Swim Group at Waimakariri Aquatic Centre in Rangiora, especially Colleen, who has been by my side in many early morning cold lake swims. Sharing Tuesday nights and a number of weekend adventures with a very special bunch of guys is the reason why my mountain bike ability has got to where it is. I have been taken to places I would never have put myself willingly. Just by following their wheels and often hanging on for dear life, I’ve learnt so much. The team at Pushbikes Rangiora, Dave my trusty mechanic, Tom for his knowledge of riding and bikes and Mitch for always saying “Sure Seonaigh bring the bike in we’ll take a look” have tolerated me on so many occasions, I’ve nearly taken up residence in their shop! Then there is Kate, a very talented athlete herself known as “my partner in crime”. We have shared numerous adventures in all three disciplines. Then I have my incredible friends the Norton’s who fill a lot of gaps and have been there in so many ways, plus so many others!

Without the assistance and support of so many people in my community I would not be experiencing the journey that I am. I thank you sincerely & hope to support and grow my team of sponsors in 2016.

So now we start the preparations to compete on a World Stage at the XTERRA World

Championships on the 23rd October 2016 in Maui, Hawaii USA. I would love for you to be a part of this amazing opportunity and appreciate all the support you can offer.