Local Volunteer to put his ‘best foot forward’ for a cause he believes in
Local man, Jason Gibson is putting his best foot forward for the Lowe Corporation Rescue Helicopter Trust, at this year’s Air New Zealand Hawke’s Bay International Marathon. Jason will take part in the 10km event on Saturday 13 May 2017 as part of ‘Team Rescue Heli’ helping to raise funds and awareness about the Rescue Helicopter service.
Jason said, “I was very privileged to be an Event Volunteer with the Hawke's Bay Rescue Helicopter team at the marathon last year, helping to collect donations and meeting some of the runners. Over the course of the two days I heard some truly amazing stories from people about how they have been helped in some way by the Rescue Helicopter and their total gratitude and appreciation of the service. Hearing these stories has inspired me this year to be on the start line of the 10km”
In 2016, around 60 runners and volunteers took part in the first Hawke’s Bay Marathon as part of ‘Team Rescue Heli’ helping to raise over $10,000 for the charity.
The Trust is hoping to build on that success this year, by getting a team together once again to walk or run one of the four events – the 3km kids run, 10km, half marathon, and of course, the full marathon.
Marketing and Fundraising Manager, Laura Hyde, said, “Jason was an integral part of our volunteer team last year, and we are so proud of him for taking part in the 10km this year. We hope that many will join him and ‘Team Rescue Heli’ and help to raise some vital funds to support our lifesaving service”
“There is no minimum sponsorship to join ‘Team Rescue Heli’ – we just ask that participants raise what they can, and proudly wear one of our running vests on the day”
Jason added, “I’m nervous about the challenge, but I know that every dollar I raise will make a huge difference, as everyday no matter where we live in New Zealand someone somewhere always needs the help of a Rescue Helicopter. I hope you will join me!”
To find out more about joining ‘Team Rescue Heli’ as either a walker, a runner, or a volunteer please contact Laura Hyde at mfm@hbhrt.org.nz or call 06 878 1630.
To sponsor Jason please visit his Giveaittle page: www.givealittle.co.nz/fundraiser/running4hbrescuehelicopter