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Speedy Spike runs 42km for the sea

$4,000 of $2,000 goal

Given by 110 generous donors in 5 weeks

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Nine-year-old Speedy Spike is dedicating his first marathon to Sustainable Coastlines.

Wellington

On behalf of Speedy Spike; Running is in my blood. It’s actually been near impossible to avoid, given that Mum is forever setting audacious running goals. I decided it was time to set one of my own. So, on Friday 25 March, just hours before I turn 10, I’m going to run a marathon (42.2km).

Living on Wellington’s South Coast means most of my running also takes place here. After every storm so much rubbish is strewn across our beach which really upsets me (although I do have a lot of fun hunting for treasures ;) ). So, I’ve chosen to dedicate my first ever marathon to the NZ charity, Sustainable Coastlines. They love our coasts and oceans and want them litter-free, just like me! They clean up beaches, restore waterways by planting trees and deliver inspiring education - empowering us to look after the places we love!

Sustainable Coastlines work to restore coastlines and waterways, does not stop! Any donation, big or small, will help them keep protecting the beaches and rivers, I'm sure most of us love to explore. So, please if you can help me reach my fundraising goal, I'd be very grateful. Your contribution will put a spring in my stride and reinforce my WHY come marathon day.

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Wild Weather Overcome 31 March 2022

Last Friday, I accomplished my running goal - completing my first marathon (42.2km) before I turned 10. A wild southerly wind made it unsafe to run along Wellington's South Coast. So, Mum and I quickly came up with plan B, 105.5 laps of the 400m athletics track at Newtown Park.

A number of our friends and neighbours came along to support me, including my very first running mentor from Wellington Scottish Athletics Club, and Whaea Julie representing my school. I was really happy to have everyone's company as lap after lap after lap got pretty boring!

After 5 hours of lapping, I was finished - what a relief! I was presented with a small box, decorated with a hand drawn mandala. Inside was a recycled glass pendant inscribed with 42.2km. A very special momentum organised by some very thoughtful friends.

The next morning, I woke up as a ten year old, and found this article on Stuff - https://www.stuff.co.nz/dominion-post/news/wellington/128159816/nineyearold-boy-runs-marathon-raises-more-than-2600-for-coastline-cleanup-charity

Thank YOU all for helping me exceed my second goal. Together we've raised over $3,300 for Sustainable Coastlines. I'm sure they will be very grateful to receive these funds after my page closes tonight. Mum, Dad and I are feeling really proud, and so appreciative of your support. Until next time, mā te wā.

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Kirsty on 31 Mar 2022

Congratulations Spike! A great run for a great cause. ❤👣❤👣 - run with your heart & your feet will follow -

$39

Fiona Hayvice

So cool to log in this morning and discover we'd double the fundraising target 💥 Thank you so much for rounding off the donations and leaving such a fitting message ❤👣❤👣❤👣

Mum & Dad on 31 Mar 2022

To have the courageous to set yourself a goal of this size, aged 9. And then be dedicated to the training is phenomenal. To top it off you took the last minute location change quite literally in your stride. Very few have the mental strength to push through like you do Spike. We could not be more proud. Keep striving high!

$242.20