Wellington police have shown their support for blood cancer patients by entering a team called The Donut Chasers in the Stadium Climb Wellington event on Friday 16th November.
“We’ve got an advantage because we can issue speeding tickets to competitors trying to overtake us on the course. They would be fake tickets of course,” says Senior Sergeant Kate Saxton from the Royal New Zealand Police College.
Leukaemia Blood Cancer New Zealand (LBC) is the organisation running the event to raise money for Wellington locals affected by blood cancer.
“It is a high energy event for the people of Wellington with an emphasis on fun. Locals get the opportunity to climb 4,500 steps in time to music and they can win prizes. What better location than the iconic rugby venue Westpac stadium,” says LBC Chief Executive Officer Peter Fergusson.
The Donut Chasers are well on their way to reaching their fundraising target. To get sponsorship they have been ‘on the case’ of family, friends and local businesses.
“I encourage other Wellington organisations to enter. It could be a fun team building exercise, fitness training or social club activity,” says Kate.
Chris used to be a referee and has refereed at Westpac stadium. He is competing in honour of his father Alan who died of myeloid leukaemia.
“I shared my love of rugby with Dad. We had season passes and would watch the games together when I was not refereeing. I have an affinity with this venue and being involved will be powerful and bring back many memories,” says Chris.
Chris has set some ambitious fitness goals to get ready for the event.
“There are 21 floors in the ANZ Centre, I run up and down the building seven times during a typical training session. Not everyone involved will take it as seriously as me. I’m motivated by the opportunity to raise money for blood cancer patients. My advice to Wellingtonians who are thinking about signing-up ……just do it!” says Chris.
The event is on Friday 16 November from 3pm. For more information or to register please visit the Stadium Climb website.