Welcome to Zahnee's Project!

Zahnee is a beautiful, clever, and ambitious five year old girl who has loads of character and loves horses.

She was born with a rare facial vascular Hemangioma Tumour that stemmed from behind her right eye and also lives with Aspergers Syndrome. And although she struggles in many ways due to her medical issues, her Mum Jade describes her as ‘bright and bubbly’.

In mid September 2011 Zahnee will travel with her parents Jade and Paul to the United States to have a life-changing operation on her right eye that cannot be offered here in New Zealand. Jade and Paul are currently fundraising as hard as they can. Donations are able to be direct credited to: ‘Zahnee’s Cause’ 12-3217-0140729-00

This is a journal of Zahnee’s journey to creating and manifesting her dreams of learning to ride a pony and competing in a ribbon day; and, writing a children’s book to inspire empathy and understanding of children who may look a bit different.

We are building a photo story as well as gathering footage for a movie of her journey which will be presented to her at the completion of her project; this will serve as much treasured tangible memories of her special project, affirm that she can, and provide a valuable source of inspiration in the years to come.

On Saturday the 13th August 2011 Zahnee took the first step to creating this reality. From here every week through to the 9th September 2011 we met for a riding lesson. Zahnee now heads to the States for her operation and we will resume the lessons once she is well enough. From here we will find an appropriate event where she will compete. In the meantime we will be working on finding a publisher and illustrator who wish to help us with her book.

Special acknowledgements to:

• Linda & Kev Hitchman - who have provided us with the use of ‘Matchie’, riding gear, facilities and giving up her time to help.

• Mark Lamb - who is travelling with Leah each week, volunteering professional photography services to capture the adventure.

Thank you both for being a special and important part of helping Zahnee realising her dreams.

Zahnee simply shines in her uniqueness and has a meaningful and important message, join us as we help Zahnee convey this in her heartlifting journey.

~~ Project KPH now has a page on Facebook. If you click 'Like' you can follow our adventures and check out all our cool pics http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.203212469749743.45682.158861080851549#!/pages/Project-KPH/158861080851549 ~~

Sensational Finale to 2009/10 season!!!

Gidday Team!

WOW! Our event at the ITM Hamilton 400 was well worth the wait!

It all started when young Ethan and Chris appeared front page of the local paper in a stealth, very fine looking silver SS - all ready for a rip roaring time on Saturday the 17th April. They both claimed they were so excited that they didn't think they'd be able to sleep on the Friday night!

Well, it appears Ethan at least was correct! According to his Mum he was awake every couple of hours through the whole night asking if it was time to go yet. Finally, at 6:45am, our day began.

Five Rotorua young people along with their parent each climbed aboard the mighty Transit and headed for the streets of Hamilton where we met up with two other kids, one from Tauranga, and one from Hamilton - each accompanied by their Dads.

We had a brilliant drive over and the organisers of the ITM Hamilton 400 had made it easy for the group to be as close to the gate as possible.

After we had got through the gate and all the kids were in their tees, we began our trek over to meet up with some of the V8 Supercar teams. On our way we were lucky enough to have a pit tour of Garth Tander's pits which was not planned but a very welcome addition to the tour! The kids were blown away when they were allowed to actually sit in the car. The photos say it all - man alive did that put some smiles on dials. Very lucky indeed!

In our theme of 'too cool for school', we then popped in to see Jason Richards who has hosted KPH kids in previous years. The kids loved meeting Jase and again secured bragging rights with all the necessary photos and autographs. Jason and Team BOC were fantastic with the kids and made them feel right at home in V8 Supercar Rev Head Heaven.

Now armed with lots of technical data, some cool posters, photos and autographs we added to our experience by meeting up with Fabian Coulthard where the kids got to see his car up close and personal and collected the prized autographs and photos with the man himself. The kids all grabbed a 'Fabian' mask on the way out the door and we had some mandatory photos taken with them on - see our gallery!

We thanked David Ridden who had organised these pit tours and hosted us throughout that whole time - and a few of us checked out his very cool watch!!!

It was Hot Chips O'clock for most of our kids and we all decided on some morning tea. We talked and laughed about the kids (and parents) experiences in the pits and the kids all did their 'Fabs' impression which everyone thought was a huge laugh. Awesome masks!

Before we knew it, it was time to hike off again back to the V8 Supercar pits where we entered the Gulf Western pits to see Daniel Gaunt's ride. Andrew who hosted us here was incredibly thorough with his explanations and the parents all commented on how much they learnt and how much they'd enjoyed learning it. Again the cameras were out in force capturing the ever lasting memories of what had become an exciting, action packed day.

Minor drama with one of my kids who needed medical attention, and - Murphy's Law states that I hadn't brought my first aid kit with me! The only time I've needed it in three seasons! However, thanks to the great number of St John's professionals on hand - we had young Hamish sorted in no time and back to the group patiently waiting in pit lane.

Lunch time! We walked around to the 'Village Green' where there was a plentiful supply of options for our rumbling tums. Due to some of the kids special needs, I'd made sure they had permission to bring their own food in and we all enjoyed a giant picnic lunch amongst all the other enthusiastic race fans. We watched a couple of the races and on-track action like the stunt bikes, on the BIG screen while we were eating - it was great.

As we were enjoying lunch one of my adorable past KPH kids tracked me down and we had a heart lifting reunion. His Mum and Dad told me he still (after eighteen months) 'rings' me everyday on his pretend phone to ask me how I'm doing and tell me about what he's been up to. I was so humbled I nearly cried. The truth is I think about him all the time too, I never forget them, and being able to keep in touch is just fantastic - I love hearing all about how they are getting on and what they have been up to. Some of the kids I've formed strong connections with and they always know they mean a lot to me. I was thrilled to see you my adorable wee Angel. You were the icing on the cake xxx

Time for the simulators!!! WINTEC allowed us to line the kids up in a row and race each other at 'Bathurst' - they loved it! The operators were encouraging the kids all the time and championing them on with their battle of Mt Panorama. And to top it off they were all given a prize for their efforts. Very cool part of our day and we thanked the crew for their time and help before heading off to the merchandise alley.

Here the group had a bit of free time, meandering through the crowds busily trying things on, pulling out the wallet and purchasing their favourite merchandise - sporting big grins as they exited with their shopping bags.

The one thing that always stands out is that everyone is happy, everyone is excited and because of that the atmosphere is just amping with great vibes.

By now it was getting close to the V8 Supercars race and we decided we had better begin our walk over to our viewing platform. When we got there, it was packed - everyone was eagerly awaiting the roar of the big V8's.

We all found a spot that worked for us and for me and four of the kids that meant sitting right at the front on the ground. They wanted to be as close as possible.

The kids jumped and waved and shouted at the drivers they had spent the day meeting, geeing them up telepathically with positive, race formula authenticity. I smiled and laughed a lot listening to their words of wisdom.

Before we knew it, it was time to say our goodbyes to our friends who had joined us from Tauranga and Hamilton, and board the Transit once more for what would be a fun trip home. We enjoyed it right to the minute we pulled up home.

Ethan very excitedly asked me "Can I keep my [KPH] tee shirt?" - gorgeous.

"OF COURSE" I beamed "It's YOURS my friend, you hang it up on your wall".

Everyone was buzzing about their day and they all said it was way more than they were expecting. Kids and parents alike were flat out reflecting on their day. What a priceless feeling for them. The group had meshed so well they'd all had an absolute ball of a time.

What a way to end our season. On a real high. We are celebrating achieving two major goals for the 2009/10 season:

* To see the number of young people through the programme rise to one hundred, and;

* To see Project KPH operating internationally - with our trip to Bathurst in October last year

So I want to thank you - our supporters, for your shared vision and genuine interest in helping us to achieve bringing the live race track experience to kids less advantaged who just want to be included. Thank you for helping us to reach 101 young people nationwide who now have memories for life, of a day that has inspired trust, friendship, learning, and self worth.

Even as I write this, I am both deeply humbled and moved to think that the Project can produce such a meaningful experience for a fellow human being who in some cases has trod an enduring, heartbreaking journey. And while we cannot re-write history, we have the power to create something very special for today - and provide a sense of purpose and value.

My heartfelt thanks to all of our loyal supporters. With your help we've changed lives.

I hope you can be proud of your part in that reality.

Shake n Bake!

Leah xxx

p.s. I seem to have omitted the part where I stalled the Transit. I mean, we all know how hard it is to stall a diesel right? That's some serious skill right there ... hardly wanted to brag ...

Terrific Taupo!!!

Hi Team,

what can I say? Taupo was TERRIFIC and delivered the KPH kids some hearty smiles, new friends and an unexpected motor racing legend.

The event got off to a very special start with two of the KPH kids who joined us from Western Heights High School in Rotorua - photographed along with myself and appeared front page of the local paper on the Friday. Rockstars!!!

Saturday morning was a tad cool pre lights on! However, nothing that a large coffee on the way of town didn't fix. Alesha and I got to the track at around 8:20am and we began to set up camp at the gate and await the arrival of eight very excited KPH kids.

The kids all arrived one by one wearing large smiles. We introduced the group and the kids all got kitted out in their KPH tees.

As a group we then moved off to our first meeting, Simon & Colin McLennan. Once again the kids were totally thrilled to see their names on both rear sides of the GT3 Porsche and the Project KPH logo sitting proudly beside them. The kids were allowed to sit in Simon's car and they were very happy about that! Simon handed out cool caps and autographed them along with the kids tees. The kids all had photos with Simon and the parents and caregivers were busily taking snapshots of everything before them.

We thanked our friends Simon & Colin and wished them well for a fantastic weekends racing.

Off we trotted to the food stalls. The kids and parents/caregivers hooked into some prized hot dogs & chips and we decided to take our snacks to the wee grandstand to eat them so we could catch the on-track action before our next meeting.

Low and behold, as we were walking through the pits to the grandstand I ran into my mate Murph! I asked Murph if he could meet up with us later so the kids could meet him. About half an hour later I got the call and we were off like robber's dogs to our meeting. The kids couldn't believe it!!! And not to mention some blown away parents and caregivers! Murph autographed all the kids tees, hats, jackets (and anything else they could find!), and the kids and parents/caregivers had photos with him too. We were very grateful to the busy man for spending the time that he did with us and the KPH kids walked away on about cloud 30!!!

Next we made our way back through the pits to Simon Sceats and his team where the kids checked out his Subaru, engaged the much sought after xBox 360 console, had autographs and photos and collected some cool wee gifts too. The kids and parents/caregivers asked plenty of questions about the car and as always Simon and his team made their experience totally interactive for them. We thanked Simon and wished him well for the final races of the championship and made our way back to the wee grandstand where the kids all put on a show for the drivers by doing a Mexican wave each time they went past.

The KPH kids all got on very well. It was a fantastic group with an awesome sync and even kids that I had been advised would probably be quite reticent due to their special need/s, were having an absolute ball and fully engaging in the experience. It was just super to watch. There were some cool activities for the kids like the giant blow up slide and the mechanical bull. I challenged the kids to a 'slide off' and we had so much fun racing up and down that slide! Then THEY challenged me to the mechanical bull ride.... "Game On" was my reply!

Checking my watch I realised it was nearly lunch o'clock and we gathered the troops to head down to the pits again to meet with Triple X. We met up with the crew and the kids were challenged to guess 'which driver went with which car' which they really enjoyed. They all received a cap for their efforts and we moved into the dining area for a yummy lunch. Triple X have provided lunch for all our groups this season and its always a highlight of the kids day. Especially the Chuppa Chups! The kids met with Dan Gaunt and collected his autograph on their tees. By now their tees were looking very impressive! One of my wee mates said to me:

"Isn't this area just for the teams? Like we're not really allowed in here are we?"
"You are today my darling ... you're special to these guys" I replied, to which he beamed with pride.

We thanked Mike Morton and his crew for their hospitality. With full tummies and sporting large smiles, we moved off to meet with Johnny Mac and his NZV8.

The KPH kids were welcomed into the JMR pits and taught all sorts of technical data about the car, different parts - how they function and why. The kids all listened with much interest. Johnny was impressed at lots of suggestions that the kids made about modifying the car to carry rocket boosters and all sorts of other gadgets which were sounding more and more James Bond by the second! These kids were really interested in everything they heard and saw and as always Team JMR were great hosts. Johnny autographed the kids tees and caps and the kids had photos too. They were well impressed with the big V8 machine and heartily thanked Johnny and his team for their time, and wished him well for the much anticipated qualifying session.

By now it was just after 2pm and I could see the kids were getting quite tired. They'd had a huge day full of sensory stimulation and although on a high, were also a bit worn out. We decided to all move back to the wee grandstand and take it from there.

A couple of the kids shortly after decided to head home, which was understandable as some of them had been up very early and travelled decent hikes to be there. BUT before they left, some of them wanted a few more photos together with Alesha and I - me in my racing suit!!! AND it was the FIRST time in three seasons I have been asked for MY autograph!!! Which I found really cute but fessed up to the kids that it probably wasn't worth a lot!

The kids that had challenged me to the mechanical bull ride then piped up and to my word I got ready to accept the challenge.

Well, much to the kids and operators amusement, it didn't get me off. They had to stop it as there were people waiting! When I got off I told the operator that I had ridden horses for years as a kid and some of them carried on like that so I was well equipped to handle the jandal. He replied "Yeah I thought you looked like a farm girl" - what the?! Its not like I rocked up in my Red Bands!

The kids had a turn too and we then moved back to the grandstand. I was impressed that some of the kids lasted till around 5pm, they really were very tired. But so happy.

After we said our final goodbyes and we walked back to the car, I reflected on what an awesome day we'd had. The kids really got on, what a great bunch of kids. They were buzzing about all of it and I've heard from some of the parents already to tell me the kids can't stop talking about it!

And that is what it is all about. Giving these kids who are less advantaged than most the opportunity to realise they have value in this community. That they CAN exercise their interest in the sport in a safe, encouraging and interactive way. They take away new skills, and a massive boost to their self esteem. And that is an absolute honour to me. You see a lot of these kids learn not to trust, a lot of them have horrific stories to tell. When you can create an environment where you can help another human being feel such a sense of belonging, such a sense of trust and faith in people - it is an incredible honour and privilege.

My thanks goes out to all our wonderful sponsors and contributors for making this day possible for these very cool and deserving kids:

* John McIntyre Racing
* The MAD Butcher
* Dabhand webdesign
* Orange Dog
* Embroidery Works
* The Motorsport Company

Simon and Colin McLennan, Simon Sceats and the CREW, Triple X Motorsport, Johnny Mac, Greg Murphy and my trusty 2IC Alesha Morris.

Where to from here?

Our last event is the Hamilton 400.

Bring it ON!!!

Meantime, take care out there.

Shake & Bake.

Leah xo

Magic Manfeild ...

Dear Team,

well Manfeild proved to be another whirlwind adventure for the Project KPH kids and their families.

I invited Alesha Morris who is a Trustee of the Project KPH Charitable Trust and our volunteer coordinator - to come along with me for the weekend to host the kids and see what all the hard work means.

We headed off from Rotorua by about 10am clocking into Manfeild early afternoon. I showed Alesha around, pointed out how to locate the various teams we visit, and introduced her to everyone. We found the McLennan's where I was promptly offered a hot lap in Simon's #26 Porsche. I VERY quickly said "YES", "Yes, yes, yes"!!! It was awesome!!! Needless to say I was super grateful and the experience was thrilling. I will bring my own race suit to every meet now just in case!!! Thank you so much to Simon and the crew - the experience held a lot of meaning for me.

Alesha and I headed back to Palmerston North to sort out dinner and get ready for Saturday with the kids.

I was awake ridiculously early! We had hot cross buns with lashings of butter for breakfast which was perfect. Arrived at the track at around 8:45am and set up a base at the ticket booths with all our tees and administrative paraphernalia. Before we knew it the kids were arriving, in their tees and ready to race.

Unfortunately two of our kids could not make it due to not being well enough on the day which was a bit sad, but as is the case often.

The eight KPH kids that did come along gasped and squealed with delight at seeing their names and the Project KPH logo on the #26 Porsche of Simon McLennan's. Dad's busily took photographic evidence for future reference. The kids were buzzing as they were invited to sit in a Porsche and the worry for us was a few of them could touch the pedals! Yikes! The kids were given cool caps too and everyone was smiling at a great start to our day.

We said a big thanks to Simon and his awesome crew and headed off to see Simon Sceats and his #17 Subaru, and the XBOX console! The kids were given very cool goodies and had fun challenging each other on the XBOX as well as meeting the crew and sitting in the Subaru. By now the kids had two prized autographs and were feeling the need to catch some of the action on the track before our BBQ lunch with Triple X.

We thanked Simon and his fantastic crew and headed over to the grandstand where we formed a line to do a Mexican Wave at any of the drivers the kids had just met. The kids found out later that Simon McLennan could actually see us while he was on the track and thought it was super cool.

Next we trotted off to the Triple X Porsche camp where the kids took part in a challenge and won autographed caps as prizes, they thought this was very cool. Before we knew it the lunch was ready and in we went! The group enjoyed a delicious lunch where some of the kids sat next to Dan Gaunt and thought this was pretty cool. Mike Morton and his crew here are always great with the kids and the lunch always goes down a treat. The kids all lined up for autographs with Daniel Gaunt and David Reynolds and the novelty of the day was far from wearing off with some of them literally jumping up and down with excitement. It was so heartwarming to watch.

Thanking the Triple X crew we launched off to our meet with Johnny McIntyre, his crew and his V8. A couple of the kids (and Dad's) were nearly beside themselves with excitement. Johnny showed the kids all around the car, explained how different parts worked and why they had them, opened the hood for all to see the big engine and of course autographed the kids tees and posters.

It was a day of non stop action and excitement for the group and this was evidenced when one of our kids needed to leave and was very upset about it. She was genuinely crying tears of sadness that her day had come to an end. She wanted me to go home with her. It was distressing for me to see a child so upset; but more than that it was one of the most humbling moments I have experienced in the three seasons with Project KPH. To have it evidenced in such a heart wrenching way just what this experience had meant for her was incredibly moving - for everyone present. She had had such a wonderful time, it had meant so much, that for her the realisation it had to end was too much for her wee heart. That right there is EXACTLY why I'm so passionate about what the Project delivers. Its real, and its effects are far reaching.

As the kids slowly decided one by one to head home, we saw the day had been a real success. At times throughout the day I could hardly walk as two of the kids in particular clung onto me everywhere we went! It was just great.

The kids all loved Alesha and I know she loved them too and got a great deal out of her experience as well. This is what Alesha had to say about her day:

Leah,

I wanted to thank you for letting me share the Project KPH experience with the kids at Manfeild this past weekend, but somehow I’m struggling to find the right words to explain the impact this weekend has had on me! As a mother of two boys, I thought I had seen the joy on kids faces, I thought I knew happiness when I saw it in my kids eyes, but I have never seen happiness as I did with the Project KPH kids! The sheer joy of sitting in a real race car, of seeing their names on a real race car, of meeting real racing car drivers, being treated as REAL people, these kids taught me the real meaning of happiness, acceptance, joy and unconditional love, kids who were strangers to me at the beginning of the day etched themselves into my heart by the end of the day – not only did I accept and love them for who they were, but they accepted and loved me for who I was – and you never can really explain that feeling can you, you can only explain it as magical, special and extremely precious. Project KPH changed these kids’ lives, even if just for one day, I’m sure like me it’s a day the kids will never forget and always treasure.

So thank you Leah, thank you Project KPH, thank you to the drivers and the motorsport community, thank you to the kids who taught me that the small things in life do matter and that every moment should be cherished!

Alesha Morris
Trustee & Volunteer Coordinator Project KPH

Sunday we caught up with a few of the kids back out at the track wearing their Project KPH tees proudly. I met up with a wee mate of mine from last year's Manfeild KPH kids and we spent the day hanging out watching the racing after I had taken him around to say gidday to all his racing friends. It was really cool to see so many of the kids and parents, and the rest of their families headed back on the Sunday. A lot of the families commented they had never been before despite living a relatively short distance from the track. One of the Mum's and her daughters had come back with Dad to be shown what her son had been part of the day before and they were just beaming with pride. It was wonderful to see.

Alesha and I had to hit the road mid afternoon and said our goodbyes. I was totally surprised when my wee mate pulled out a gift wrapped box of chocolates and a lovely card for me! I was really touched by that but also told him he didn't need to thank me, that I just wanted to hang out with him. I joked that this meant he was my Valentine to which he said "Nooooo" and produced an award winning grin and small blush! Gorgeous, totally gorgeous and I'm a very lucky girl.

What a great bunch of kids. What an excellent weekend. My thanks goes out to all our drivers, their crews, all our sponsors who make this day a possibility for these cool kids and to Alesha for her company and all her help.

From here? Taupo.

Game on!

Shake n Bake.

Leah xo

Timaru 2010, wet, cold, brilliant ...

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

Ruapuna Round Up!

Well what a WET weekend we were all served up in Christchurch for Round Two of the Championship series. However, despite it being wet and cold, the show went on!

I arrived late Friday afternoon and checked into the Sudima Hotel Christchurch Airport for what was another fantastic stay. I had the pleasure of hosting one of our sponsors - Jason Monopoli - from Orange Dog, and his son, who joined us on our KPH adventures. We had a lovely meal at the restaurant and I was lucky enough to make friends with a gorgeous wee boy with the longest eye lashes you can imagine and a beautiful smile! I think you made my weekend wee man :)

My mate John Miller picked me up at 9am and we drove out to Ruapuna. John gave me a hand with the group all day and took photos for us too! Thanks John!

We waited at the gate for the kids and their parents with tickets thanks to The Motorsport Company, we all introduced ourselves and the kids all got into their Project KPH tees supplied by our awesome tee sponsor Embroidery Works.

We had seven KPH kids chomping at the bit to get in amongst the action, all with varying special needs and ranging in age from five through to thirteen. We also hosted our fourth girl out of a total of what is now seventy KPH kids. Nice to see another girl enjoying such a cool sport.

As the rain persisted we cruised down to see Simon McLennan who is running in a 996 Porsche this year and shows his support to Project KPH by having the logo on his car. But more than that - the kids were all surprised to see their names under 'Support Crew' on both rear sides of his race car!!! The kids and parents alike were all super impressed and had photos taken beside their names with Simon and while they had a sit in the drivers seat as well. Colin and Simon challenged the kids to a 'Wheel Off' where they use the rattle gun to take the wheel off, and then put it back on again. Some of the kids obviously have a natural hidden talent and I think were being eyed up as potential new crew!!! We were shown both inside and outside of the car and explained to about the engine after the kids discovering it is in the boot!!! We were lucky enough to spend about forty five minutes here and after autographs on tee shirts and the cool caps they were given, we moved into the cafe around the corner for a hot drink.

We all huddled around the table sipping at hot drinks and some choosing to have some morning tea as well. Some of the kids and parents then popped up onto the bank to catch some of the action on track before we shot down to see Johnny Mac and his team at JMR. Johnny signed posters for all the kids and explained to them what had just happened with his car and what the team had to do to repair it. By now the rain was quite heavy and the ground was seriously soggy. Back to the cafe it was!

Lucky for us such a facility exists as some of the kids immune systems are not as good as their peers so being able to keep warm and dry was paramount.

The clock seemed to move very slowly for us all as we looked forward to our BBQ lunch with Triple X. Finally, lunch o'clock chimed and we were off like a pack of robbers dogs. Mike Morton hosted us and explained to the kids all about the data print outs they had and what they meant as well as other facts and figures about the cars. The crew put on an AWESOME lunch for us all and boy did we appreciate it!!! Once everyone had filled their tummies Mike set down a challenge for the kids where they all had a wheel to clean. Gloves and rags were supplied and the timer was set. We needed three Dads to compete as well to make up numbers and along with the kids they all set to. They were into it!!! And, they all did a great job too with guidance from the Triple X team. Time was called and we had a winner - Matt & Jordan. Nice work guys! All the kids were given cool caps and posters and had them signed by Craig Baird, David Reynolds and Daniel Gaunt who were all great with the kids. Was a real highlight of the day for the group.

It was around half past one and it had got very cold; the weather was staging a vigil.

We had a group meeting and made the decision that the kids and parents were able to head for home if they wished as some of the group were getting quite cold by now. And given their tickets were for both days, they were all planning on bringing their friends and family back the next day and catch up on the racing.

The kids and parents all said their goodbyes. It is so cool to see the big smiles on these kids faces - this is what it's all about. Lovely kids, lovely parents - what a cool group. I noticed some of the Dads swapping phone numbers as well so it looks like the kids (and Dads) have made some friends which is awesome.

All in all, the weather was not enough to stop the smiles on the kids faces and we all had a great time.

A very special thank you to the following for helping create these smiles for these kids:

* JMR
* The MAD Butcher
* The Sudima Hotel Christchurch Airport

Now we decide on where we get to next, depending on what we can deliver for the money. We have so far committed to the Manfeild Round next February and the Hamilton 400 next April with groups well underway.

We are looking at Timaru as an addition to the calendar, with Teretonga in Invercargill a possibility. Teretonga is the most expensive round (to get to) hence the omission last season - but we will let you know in the next couple of weeks by posting the schedule in the Events part of the Project KPH website.

Meantime, Shake 'n' Bake!!!

Leah xo

Successful conclusion to Bathurst mission

This week saw the successful conclusion to our much anticipated, much planned and worked for trip to Bathurst.

Simply we had a ball. It was an amazing experience and well worth the effort that everyone has put in to making it happen.

With our sponsors and supporters help we were able to deliver to two families the rev head trip of a lifetime and one which they will be sure to remember for many years to come.

Day one began with a very early start at Christchurch International Airport where Sabrina's Mum Sally produced a batch of banana & chocolate muffins. A delicious distraction as we made our way to the front of the queue to check in.

Bags checked, goodbyes said, cards filled out - we boarded our flight with much excitement. The kids enjoyed the various games and music available during the flight on the cool in flight entertainment system. Before we knew it we were going through customs and out the other side to collect our rental car at Sydney.

We found the car quickly and loaded her up with much luggage, left the airport and headed for Bathurst. Trip was actually pleasant, although trying to read a map and drive was a challenge! A few minor stuff ups which were easily corrected and all in all I was impressed how hassle free the drive was considering I have never driven in Australia before and basically had no idea where I was going!

Got to Bathurst on time and quickly found the local information centre so I could identify where the house was. Easy. On to the supermarket to gather supplies and on to the house. It was fantastic. Lovely house, great facilities - the kids had a swim in the pool! I began to cook dinner, homemade pizza, a batch of chocolate fudge and did a load of washing for the troops before putting together the scooters. Leftover pizza packed up with fruit and other snacks for the track Friday.

We let the kids have a BIG sleep in after what was a decent hike the day before, then got ready and headed out, the track was calling.

Picked up our tickets that were waiting for us and proceeded to enter the zone!

Amazing. It is huge! Exciting, electric and amping with good times is what welcomed and beckoned our senses. The kids and I putted around on the cool scooters we had brought all the way from NZ complete with personalised plates and chopper flags. I took a wee portable stereo and zip tied it to the front of my scooter so that we could cruise around listening to music. We all felt pretty cool.

The fans loved our efforts with the scooters many smiles and comments came our way. They looked just the part with our tees, coincidentally our website stats for Australia are well up!

We had all worked up an appetite and tucked into the leftover pizza and the choc fudge with gusto. Having satisfied our tummies we enjoyed watching the shoot out and the kids and I did some exploring catching up with a few people and sussing out the scene.

There were heaps of things to see and do, displays with sound systems, cars and interesting facts and figures. There was a strong Police presence which I thought was great - made you feel very safe. The merchandise tents and stalls were doing a roaring trade as per with everyone kitting themselves out in the latest Holden or Ford gear to support their favourite teams.

After we had a good look around it was on track entertainment and time to head home again. This time I cooked Sweet and Sour chicken with heaps of vegetables and rice and did another couple of loads of washing so the troops always had plenty of clean clothing for the next day.

Paula, Rob and I stayed up talking for a bit, getting to know each other better and sharing stories about the kids. Was great.

The next morning we were out of the house by 7:30am and at the track buying bus tickets to go up the Mountain at 8:00am. I'd got up early and cooked the troops a hearty breakfast of bacon & eggs on toast in preparation for a big day at the track. We loaded into the bus, and chugged up the hill taking in the sights and appreciating the view, and the fact it is so steep! It really is a hike.

Life up the mountain is awesome. We were treated to some extraordinary entertainment and what looked to be a fair degree of competition at who had the coolest site. The effort that goes into some of these camp sites is well worth a trip up the hill to see. Just awesome. It was a seriously non PC affair! We all had a great time watching the racing and soaking up the atmosphere up here. Was quite cold however, and when we returned down to the main paddock around lunchtime, it seemed very warm down there!

We tucked into the big sammies I'd made the night before, some more fudge and yummy fruit, re-hydrated and headed into the pit area for our big meeting with Stone Brothers Racing (SBR). We were greeted by John McIntyre himself who you may remember was an integral part in helping us get to Bathurst by putting on our hot laps fundraiser along with the Taupo Motorsport Park and Taupo District Council.

The SBR experience was excellent. They allowed us to use their food hall when we needed to retreat from the rain with the kids, and we were welcomed into their pits for most of the rest of the afternoon. We learnt all about the hydraulic jack system, the data and checked out the massive brake pads and discs on these cars. The brake pads are HUGE!!! But its easy to understand why. The kids had photos with Johnny and were lucky enough to sit in his car with the belts all done up. They were in rev head heaven. The kids tees were signed and I did a de-brief interview with the kids on my video, both claiming Johnny was "cool". SBR were great to us and we would be keen to proudly have them as our Ford team for future V8 Supercar events.

Shortly before we left we were jumping out of our seats to rush out and see what was making the massive noise - a huge jet 'buzzed' the track and man alive it was awesome. Looked like an F16 or something similar - I'm not an aero expert so don't quote me. Put it this way, it was BIG, LOUD and FAST. I decided I had better try to have a fly in something like this one day. It's on THE list. Good times.

We headed home again and decided on an early night to get to the track early the next day. On race day we arrived at 7:30am and the difference in where we had to park was huge. The crowds were massive and it had exploded into full on Bathurst action, everyone eagerly anticipating what the result of today would mean for their colour.

Our appointment with Sprint Gas Racing was at 8:00am Sunday. We were outside the pit garage at 7:45, charging. We were lucky enough to be able to stay in here until just before race start. The kids adored meeting Murph, getting his autograph as well as Skaife and Bargs. The kids were in heaven! As always Murph was great with the kids, both parents exclaimed how relaxed he was with them. We got some great footage and photos and really enjoyed ourselves.

As the race started it bucketed down with rain. Come in our SBR ponchos! Thank goodness! We all agreed even though it was raining we wanted to be on the bank with the crowds. After all, rain, mud, jeans and tomato sauce are all part of being at a race track. The anticipation of the race start was intense. You could have heard a pin drop. And then a huge roar as everyone's favourite teams sped off into the first corner and nailed the first lap.

The rain persisted for a while, we all huddled under our ponchos and stayed warm and dry. It added to the essence of the trip and actually found it a bit of a dag.

The race went on and we saw many drama's unfold in front of us as we were sitting on the bank opposite the pit garages. It was a great spot.

Towards the end the kids and I were on our feet jumping up and down screaming at the top of our lungs "GO MURPH" "GO JOHNNY go go go". Everyone around us thinking it odd we were all cheering for both a Holden and a Ford!!! The end was a massive build up, as with any race meet, anything and everything can happen. For a few laps Johnny was right in front of Murph and then Murph got past and it was the other way round. It was exciting for the kids to be cheering on drivers they had actually met, and struck up a rapport with. It's all the more exciting when you have a horse in the race!

Do I need to say that HOLDEN WON? Um, what was it again: Holden, Holden, Holden, Holden, then we gave ya one with a Ford, then Holden, Holden, Holden, Holden and surprise surprise, Holden. Ahhhh, good times.

Logan being a staunch Ford man found it within himself to shake my hand in congratulations and him and Sabrina quickly trying to gather historical victories for Ford. It was very funny. We had a lot of fun being such a mixed group of supporters, bound to be some friendly fire to keep things interesting.

We were proud of our boys, Murph and Johnny did great. We loved that there were so many Kiwi's we could be proud of.

Everyone raced on to the track and we packed up our things. We went and took some mandatory photos on the track and had fun watching all the fans do their thing too. We ran into Stig who looked to be a well organised chap, towing a supply cart done up like Brockie's #05 complete with essential supplies for the day.

After we exhausted our photo opportunities we headed home again, cooked up a storm and began to pack our things for the trek back to NZ. We had an awesome time and everyone was buzzing about what we had just been part of, what we had achieved. The kids were stoked.

We decided on a McDonalds breakfast on our way out of town, and I was able to check with Google Maps on where I was meant to go to find the Hotel back in Sydney. The car went well on gas that's for sure. But we had an issue with the alarm being a bit trigger happy because the remote key was having a bad hair week. We affectionately named her 'Christine' The Holden from Hell. But it was a bit of an exaggeration as she was pretty good really. Even obliged a small squeal.

Made our way to Sydney in good time, and abode relatively easy to find. Took one wrong turn which was easily corrected. We then caught a taxi into the heart of the place to take a look around. We visited the Opera House, went over the bridge, took heaps of photos of the simply beautiful old architecture and the troops did a spot of shopping. We caught a taxi back to the hotel and got ready for a meal at the restaurant to celebrate Rob's 50th birthday.

It was a great night with lots of laughs and Rob saying it was the best 50th birthday present he could have had which was just super.

In the morning I drove the troops to the airport and parked 'Christine' up where we had found her. We checked in, and the troops had a bite to eat. Before we knew it we were in Christchurch after another great flight.

Saying goodbye there were a few tears. We'd all found new friends and we will forever be bound by this incredible experience that we'd worked very hard for.

Personally, I would struggle to find a better group to spend a week away with. And when you are away with people you don't know, for a week in an unfamiliar territory it could have served as a challenge. It was anything but and we just clicked.

We had the time of our lives.

Thank you for your support, for your encouragement and for your shared vision to create such a meaningful experience for these two awesome kids and their parent each. This trip marks a significant achievement for a relatively unknown children's charity - especially given the economic climate we raised our funds in.

It really was the trip of a lifetime and I'm sure will remain a treasured and fond memory in the hearts and minds of Sabrina, Rob, Logan and Paula. I know it will mine.

Our many thanks goes out to:

* John McIntyre Racing

* The MAD Butcher

* Air New Zealand

* Timaru Motors

* Woodnorth Joyce Ltd

Taupo Motorsport Park, Taupo District Council, Orange Dog, Dabhand Webdesign, Embroidery Works, Sudima Hotel Christchurch, Sudima Hotel Rotorua, Cheryl Freeman, PC Electrics and all individuals and businesses who made donations towards our trip.

It has been an honour to make this dream trip a reality.

My very best wishes,

Leah xo