Remembering Tim

On 31st July it will be a year since my brother lost his life after a cycling accident, whilst out on an early morning training ride in Long Island. From a UK state (public) school background, Tim achieved 1st class honours from Cambridge University and went on to have successful career in trading and risk management for both JP Morgan and Bank of America. He was also a formidable sportsman. In his University days on the rugby field, and latterly competing in over 100 triathlons across the USA. In 2019 he set most of his personal records, and was ranked 3rd globally for his age group at Ironman 70.3. He also achieved a time of 2hrs 50 in the New York marathon, which we ran both ran in November.

That was the last time I saw him before his accident. He never made it to New Zealand but had always planned to come and compete at the Taupo Ironman. So running the Taupo Marathon on 31st July this year has to be done. I've always run races solely for personal gratification, however this time it seems a fitting tribute to do something in Tim's memory.

He'd have thoroughly approved of and supported the Endeavour Scholarship Programme.

Launched in 2001 this programme is open to Maori and Pasifika boys and girls annually providing opportunities for them to receive an education at King’s School, King’s College, St Cuthbert’s College and Sacred Heart College. The scholarship provides for the students from Year 7 – 13, offering an all-round education at four of New Zealand’s best independent schools.

Fundamental to the success of the Endeavour scholarship is the principle that the schools, families and communities work alongside each other heading in the same direction to ensure the students have the opportunity to reach their full potential.

Since inception the Endeavour Scholarship Programme has provided an independent education for over 200 students. Recipients have reflected on the opportunities the Endeavour Scholarship have given them and written:

"I was not this incredible person when I was selected for this scholarship, when I was just 10 years old. Nor am I this incredible person now. But people saw potential in me. I hope they also see that I will do anything now to fulfil that potential."

"The Endeavour Scholarship gave me the chance to learn more about my capabilities and to explore new challenges. I will be forever grateful for this opportunity that was given to me."

"The scholarship has provided a pathway for me to access various resources and fulfil my ambitions of becoming a lawyer and a rugby star for the future!"

"As a young boy back in Primary school there is no way I could have imagined that I would end up going to a school like this, having experienced the things I have, having met the people who I call my friends today."

"This scholarship is more than financial assistance – it is a doorway to my future, that is now open. I cannot express how grateful I am that this door is available for me to step through and discover what lies ahead."

It is only through the generosity of others that these young men and women can experience a world class education that sets them up for a lifetime of learning and opportunity. Help me, help them in memory of my remarkable brother.