Hi Team,
Our Timaru event on the 23rd January 2010 had been planned for months. I had eight kids with feet to the floor ready to experience the day that is KPH.
The week leading up to this should have been smooth, as it was all in hand, under control. Unfortunately instead it was one of the most manic weeks I have had in my career.
I got a phone call the Saturday before to say that my husband had been in an accident on his dirt bike. He was in Waiouru – for anyone who doesn’t know, this is the southern end of the desert road, middle of the north island. To cut a long story short, he has broken his leg in two places and is off work for the best part of the next three – four months. Anyone who knows us knows this has a serious impact. Basically I had to take over the management of the business Darryl manages on top of my coaching business and Project KPH and obviously and most importantly keep the home functioning.
I had a few people tell me to call Timaru off, to let it go, that I had enough on my plate. No. It was not good enough for me to let these kids down, it was not an option. You see, for these kids, this isn’t like being promised a triple decker ice-cream from the local dairy. It is for a lot of them a once in a lifetime opportunity to realise a dream. Not just of the tangible side of the day but of the emotions that go with it – the realising that they are valued, have a place within this community, can exercise their interest in motor racing without fear of being ridiculed, or stared at for being different and learn new skills to take forward, that they CAN. And I could not let them down; it is not in my nature to give up, never has been and never will be.
When things like this happen in your life, one simply has to be very resourceful. It’s a matter of choosing to sink or swim. I like swimming.
I sent a text to my mate John Miller who has given me a hand on at least three occasions at Ruapuna and Timaru. He is someone I knew would get the job done, and with excellence. I trust him with my kids and that means a heap. It was a big ask and I knew it. There are not many people who could, or should I say would, step up and look after a group of special needs children for a day in such a busy environment.
John immediately agreed to take over the hosting for me. Brilliant.
So, after some seriously long days and nights – it was all go. The kids would have their day, I could look after my husband and everyone was happy.
From all accounts the kids had an absolute ball. John and Kate both kept in touch with me throughout the day giving me updates. When it was all over I rang John and we had a de-brief. It sounded like they all had a fantastic day. I was so pleased for them.
A couple of days later I received all my paperwork and paraphernalia back from John and Kate, including a disc with all the photos they had taken on the day. I was thrilled to see the huge smiles on the kid’s faces and put their faces to the names I had. It also brought a wee tear to my eye. The fact that we had been able to make this happen for them despite the circumstances meant so much to me personally because through the wonderful photos I could see just what it meant that they had their day. I have also received some lovely letters from parents explaining what it meant for them, just super.
You know in circumstances like these, which seem compelled to make unforeseen appearances in peoples’ lives – you really learn a lot about the people around you.
To John and Kate, my deepest thank you. You helped me fulfill the dreams of eight young people’s lives. You helped me to ensure they still had their day in rev head heaven. On the 23rd January 2010 know this - you both made a real difference. And that, is something.
This is what Kate had to say about her day:
Rain often dampens the best laid plans, but for the keen group of kids and parents we hosted at Timaru, the rain made no difference to an amazing day filled with unique experiences and the kind hospitality of many race teams who gave up part of their busy day to create something very special for these wonderful young people. What I loved most was the kids who were so shy at first, gradually warming up (despite the rain!) to the idea of, for one day, becoming part of the close-knit motorsport community. You could actually see some of the kids holding their breath as they stepped into the driver’s seat of some of the racecars – like they couldn’t quite believe they were allowed. And even for those kids who, because of their condition tended to seem quite solemn and withdrawn, if you watched closely the flicker of a smile for the briefest of moments made it all so worthwhile. I think though that the drivers get something very real out of it all too – especially the younger drivers. The knowledge that they ARE role models and that they can give something very special to these kids THROUGH their own passion for motorsport. What an amazing day – thank you so much for letting me experience it.
Kate Russell
Chief Executive
Cystic Fibrosis Association of New Zealand
This is what John had to say about his day:
A wet Saturday did not dampen the spirits of the 8 guests of KPH. Our first visit was with John McIntyre and his NZV8 Falcon which everyone liked and got to see a mighty V8 up close and personal. Then it was off to see Simon Sceats and his Subaru Impreza Production Car, it was a tough call as to what was more fun Simons car or the big Xbox.
Wouldn't you know it was then time for lunch with XXX Motorsports GT3 Porsche Team and what an excellent time had there by all. There was a question challenge for the guys and girl where they each got a signed cap for their efforts. And many photo opportunities with some of the drivers.
Then last of all it was off to M2 Motorsport Porsche GT3 and everyone got a buzz out of seeing their names and the KPH logo on the car.
Thank you to everyone for a truly wonderful day
John Miller
Good Sort Association of New Zealand
So, as the saying goes – all’s well that ends well. And this story certainly did.
To Johnny McIntyre, Simon Sceats, Triple X, Simon McLennan and John & Kate – thank you all for looking after my kids and for bringing sunshine to their lives on an otherwise rainy day. What a team.
What’s next you say?
Manfeild.
GAME ON!!!
Leah xo
