In a world where barriers often shape our perceptions, the stories of three extraordinary young men—Ethan, Kyren, and Roman from BLENNZ—offer a poignant reminder that true limitations exist only within the confines of our minds. This interview explores their preparation, experiences, and reflections on participating in the Auckland marathon last year alongside Achilles.
Preparation and Training
Ethan with his arm raised and cheering in a yellow Achilles shirt crossing the finish line. Time shows 2.32.20
Ethan initiated the conversation, detailing his training routine—30 minutes of cardio in the morning, followed by strength training in the afternoon. Reflecting on the challenge, Ethan said, "I felt I was challenged, but it was a good challenge - I like them, otherwise life would be boring."
Kyren, an experienced tandem cyclist and on the para pathway, embraced a different approach, relying on cycling training to bolster endurance. Reflecting on the marathon, Kyren shared, "When I got to the marathon, it was like the excitement built on the day, and when I got to it and completed it, I felt pretty good."
Roman, initially lured into complacency during school holidays in his preparation, found motivation and discipline under the guidance of Stuart, a residential youth worker and Roman’s running partner and guide. Roman admitted, "I lost my training pattern from the school holidays and became too comfortable, I then got sick and that made me doubt myself a little bit – my family said I could pull out if I needed but I knew I didn’t want to let myself and the team down”
Stuart, a pivotal figure in getting the team together for the day, shared insights into his regimen—gym sessions three times a week, swimming twice a week, and long runs on weekends to familiarize himself with the pacing and distance. Stuart reflected, "It was an amazing experience, and just like these guys, I was super nervous in the morning - couldn’t even eat breakfast, but then we hit the ferry wharf and I was like yes! I’m excited."
Achilles Connection and Support
The group received support within Achilles, a community that empowers athletes with disabilities. Roman highlighted the significance of training alongside Achilles members, emphasizing the inspiration derived from the Auckland Chapter with characters like Peter Loft and Warren Payne. Roman stated, "I trained with Stuart in Cornwall Park and Auckland Centre Domain with Achilles and got tips from other people running," remarked Roman. “I think it was just a really good experience with Achilles, a good organization." Stuart echoed the sentiment, “It was a good opportunity to run alongside them and train alongside them. I feel like we came away running with Achilles quite inspired as well”
Stuart and Roman strengthened their connection formed during their runs. Stuart added "Yeah, and through comms with each one, I’ve found we really get in tune with each other. He (Roman) will sometimes spot things before me! I’ll still keep up and say there is a speed bump, and he’d be like, yeah, I know!’" Their guiding relationship was a blend of teamwork, communication, and mutual inspiration, showcasing the power of collaboration in overcoming challenges.
The Marathon Experience
As the interview shifted to the marathon itself, emotions ran high. Ethan, admitting nervousness as a first-time marathoner, expressed excitement at the prospect of pushing personal limits. Ethan said, "I was also VERY excited because of those reasons, that I’d never done pro-sport before, so it was an amazing taster as to what it is."
Guide Stuart Sloman left and Roman to the right shirtless with Achilles top tucked into running shorts crossing the finish line and smiling.
Roman overcame doubts and illness, ultimately finding the marathon a profoundly rewarding journey. Roman recalled, "The night before the marathon probably is the worst because you wanna get good rest, and then if you don’t, it’s not good. And then the marathon day you get a boost; you get a massive natural high."
Marathon Times and Words of Wisdom
The athletes shared advice for those contemplating a marathon, emphasizing the importance of mental fortitude, training, and the simple act of putting one's mind to the challenge. Roman's bold declaration, "If three blind students can do it, anyone can," serves as a powerful testament and adds, "If you think about doing a marathon, then do a marathon. If you are thinking about it, I reckon you really wanna do it, but you just don’t know how to do it."
Reflecting on their marathon times:
Ethan completed the 11km marathon in an impressive 2 hours and 10 minutes.
Kyren achieved a remarkable time of 1 hour and 52 minutes for the 11km marathon.
Roman conquered the 21km marathon in 2 hours and 21 minutes.
Looking ahead, Roman expressed a desire to tackle a 42km marathon and venture into cycling and triathlons. "I definitely do another 10km next year because those to me are very comfortable for me and trying to smash my time with the Wellington marathon. I really want to do a 42km."
The Ripple Effect
Beyond personal achievements, the impact of their journey resonates within the BLENNZ community. Teachers and students alike found inspiration in their accomplishments, fostering a ripple effect within the school with students and teachers alike. Heather, acting as the logistics person on the day, reflected on the experience, "It was busy but elated about it all. There was also extra stuff during the race that happened along the way that was special."
Kyren left and Achilles guide Lars Madsen right, both wearing yellow Achilles tops crossing the finish line. They are holding hands high in the air in celebration and Kyren has his other arm up high too with a smile.
Pasifika drums accompanied a part of their journey, echoing the collective rhythm of resilience and power, these young men are beginning to break down barriers, and setting an example for those around them.
Their story urges everyone to break free from self-imposed limitations and embark on their own journeys. The marathon isn’t just a physical feat but a mental one, proving that with determination, support, and a strong sense of purpose, anyone can cross the finish line. Kyren added, "Massive shoutout to the staff of BLENNZ, especially Stuart for organizing the opportunity. Thank you for organizing this really fun event; I’m definitely doing it again. Bring it on."
Feeling inspired? Share the journey of these incredible athletes and spread the message of breaking boundaries, or get in touch with us if you want to be involved with a local chapter of Achilles New Zealand.