Community
With six months of fundraising-time before he leaves New Zealand for New York – Jack Lovett-Hurst is overwhelmed with the public’s support, both locally and nationally, to help him achieve his dream of competing in the world-renowned New York City marathon in November.
Jack has muscular dystrophy and is one of only two, hand cycle riders selected from New Zealand to compete in the gruelling 42.2km marathon, with about 50,000 international competitors expected to take part this year.
The 20-year-old along with his mum Debbie Houkamau and stepdad Greg Houkamau, have been blown away with the fundraising support from the Southland community, which has involved monetary donations; kind words; people’s time; and donated goods and products from businesses, groups and individuals.
“The support has been unreal. It’s really exciting and inspiring that people want to help,’’ Jack said.
Jack is currently training four to five days per week, either at the YMCA gym in Invercargill or training with Greg on the roads in the city – when the weather permits.
Greg will participate in the marathon alongside Jack, and Debbie will join them at the half-way mark, so they can cross the finish line in Central Park together.
Greg expected the marathon, which runs through all five New York City boroughs, to take about four hours to complete.
Fundraising efforts are heating up with a dinner and entertainment night set to be hosted by well-known New Zealand identity and long-time friend of Jack, Brendon Pongia, planned for June or July.
Next month (May 9) The Adam & Eve Show, a New Zealand television and online show, will be in Invercargill interviewing Jack for an inspiring people segment. Filming locations are to be confirmed but could include the Southland Hospital physiotherapy department; Radio Southland – where Jack has his own on-air show; and out and about in the city.
Jack, Debbie and Greg said they wanted to thank Greg Finn for setting up Jack’s givealittle page and AccessAbility Southland co-ordinator Jenny Hogg, who has supported them “amazingly” on their journey to New York, as well as Achilles International New Zealand and everyone else throughout the Southland and wider New Zealand community.
Visit Jack’s Givealittle page to donate to help him achieve his dream. As at time of publication donations were at $3,088 with a goal of reaching $20,000.