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INSPIRING ATHLETES

Brendan Hickman

"We thought GODZone was an impossible challenge that we'd struggle to get around the full course. However it was actually quite achievable, although I'd certainly advise getting some quality advice from someone who has multi day adventure racing experience."

- Brendan Hickman (Virbac Animal Health)

WOW, what an adventure. The 2017 GZ Pursuit race was a massive challenge. Thankfully, being in the Pursuit meant it was more bearable with the presence of our fantastic support crew who kept us going with great food and encouragement at transitions. Favourite parts for us were mixing with all the other teams, being on top of Mt Crichton and seeing all the other back of beyond areas.

Mostly though, it was thinking our race was over during the last trek, making it to TA and then being able to hang on during an epic 47km drag race down Lake Wakatipu to the finish.  A lot of our inspiration comes from knowing people who can’t do this sort of adventure, hence raising money for Starship was part of our race as well.

We thought GODZone was an impossible challenge that we’d struggle to get around the full course. However it was actually quite achievable, although I’d certainly advise getting some quality advice from someone who has multi day adventure racing experience. And competing in New Zealand is fantastic. Plenty of remote areas, no dangerous or poisonous animals and great hospitality.