Kepler Challenge: Running every KM for my MATES in Construction!

I am running the Kepler Challenge ultra marathon on 7 December 2024, doing so in support of MATES in Construction. After surveying the options, the Kepler Challenge was really the only choice, as I have always wanted to do it. This race takes place along the stunning Kepler track, near Te Anau. Really the only metrics you need to know about are these - 60.1km long, a 1300m vertical climb…right near the start. It will be a day of adventure, spectacular views, plenty of pain and suffering, but at the end of it all, the reward of crossing the finish line. As part of this run, I am raising funds for MATES in Construction, a mental health-based charitable organisation whose overarching objective is the reduction of suicide in the construction industry. Sadly, the construction industry has an extremely high suicide rate. It saddens me that people in our industry get to a point where they feel their only resort is to take their lives. Having suffered from depression and mental illnesses over the years myself, I admire the outstanding work that MATES in Construction do. I am now a huge supporter of their work. Their efforts in trying to understand and rid our industry of this scourge is incredible. Connecting with people, helping them see there is a positive pathway to choose, helping them understand that there are family, friends and colleagues who love them, this is the most noble of causes within our industry. It was an easy decision to support MATES. I hope you will too.