TYPE 2 MARATHON WALKER

Wellington-based Wayne, 49, began his Rotorua Marathon odyssey inspired by his father, Ron, who was a sub-three-hour marathon runner. A regular at the iconic event his father picked up a knee injury, & after being told he could no longer run Wayne decided to join his dad in walking the 42.2km distance.

“For many years we attended the Rotorua Marathon together, once dad stopped walking he became my support crew & with mum driving around the course,” said Wayne. “Dad would run my drinks , lunch & coach me around the course, great father, son bonding time. “Often mum would drop dad @ the road closure so he could walk this section with me, getting me over halfway and back to the main road.” Wayne has many rich memories of competing in the annual race. His favourite arrived when he completed his 20th Rotorua Marathon with his dad & siblings - Ron, Suzanne, Neville & Paul. A Type 2 Diabetic, Wayne has targeted raising more than $5000 for Diabetes NZ as an additional motivation for the 2024 race.

Supported by partner, Maria, his main cheerleader, support aid & counsellor, the traffic management co-ordinator with Wellington City Council is looking forward to what will be a very special milestone Rotorua Marathon on 4 May next year. “2024 will be a big year for me,” says Wayne. “It will be my 30th Marathon & 19 May I will also celebrate my 50th birthday. I’ll have family & friends once again joining me on the day for a lap of the lake.”