TRIATHLON

Challenge Wanaka to partner with Cystic Fibrosis NZ in 2016

By Cystic Fibrosis New Zealand

Cystic Fibrosis New Zealand and Challenge Wanaka are thrilled to announce that they will continue to partner each other in 2016. The 2015 event raised just over $20,000 for Kiwis living with cystic fibrosis – an outstanding result, with donations more than double that of 2014.

These funds will be used to administer CFNZ’s “Breath4CF portfolio”, aimed at assisting with exercise equipment and sporting activities. Physical activity has been proven to help people with CF stay well for longer, which makes CFNZ a natural alliance for sporting and athletic events.

CFNZ CEO Belinda Burnett said: “Being aligned with such a wonderful organisation as Challenge Wanaka is a real boost to our small charity. We look after the needs of the 450 people in NZ with CF; having the support of Challenge Wanaka means that we are bringing our message to all corners of NZ – not just the main centres.

“We want to express our sincere gratitude to all the athletes who helped raise funds in this year’s Challenge Wanaka event. We had health professionals who care for patients with cystic fibrosis, family members, and competitors who overcame severe physical challenges to participate, and raise money for this worthy cause,” Burnett said.

“We’re delighted to partner with CFNZ once again,” said Challenge Wanaka race director, Victoria Murray-Orr. “We are incredibly fortunate that we are able to swim, bike, and run in this stunning part of the world but those with cystic fibrosis don’t have that option. To provide the platform to raise essential funds for CFNZ and to work with the team is an honour and it’s wonderful to see so many athletes raising money for such a worthwhile cause.”

Challenge Wanaka is New Zealand’s largest annual triathlon festival featuring over 2000 athletes. It is the worlds’ most scenic triathlon, set against the lake and mountain backdrop of Mount Aspiring National Park in New Zealand’s South Island.

Cystic Fibrosis New Zealand also runs its “Creation Station” during the races where supporters can make a sign for their friends and family who compete – urging them on from the side lines.

A Challenge Wanaka souvenir flag was auctioned at prize giving in February, attracting a winning bid of $2000 – which was also kindly donated to Breath4CF. In 2014, $8000 was raised, so making a total of over $20,000 this year was a particularly strong result for charity.

In 2016, the 10th anniversary of Challenge Wanaka will take place on Saturday 20 February at Lake Wanaka. Athletes can begin registering now and start their fundraising campaigns at www.challenge-wanaka.com

“We want to make next year’s event even more successful for everyone – especially those living with this severe, life-threatening illness,” Burnett says.