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This Weeks Guest, 16 December 2011
3pm to 4pm, Radio Sport
Jup Brown - Running Man
Justyn (Jup) Brown is an ordinary New
Zealander who enjoys setting himself new challenges, to test himself
and see what he is capable of achieving. Jup has travelled the world
over the past two decades, exploring new places and meeting
remarkable people. His work life is never dull – working as a
plumber, an English-Japanese translator at Japanese sporting events,
and building ski and snowboard courses.
His interest in long-distance running started in 2007 with a
marathon on Australia’s Gold Coast, which he completed in 3 hours 59
minutes. Subsequently he has competed in two 100km ultramarathons in
Japan, and run a marathon at Mt Everest Base Camp. “For me, running
marathons is not about racing or wanting to win, but about doing my
best,” he says. “Life for me is about making the most of every day.”
Jup’s friend, Nick Chisholm, is an inspirational Kiwi and a stroke
survivor. Moved by Nick’s enthusiasm for life, Jup set about
preparing to run the length of New Zealand with the endorsement of the Stroke
Foundation of New Zealand. His goal is to raise awareness of Nick
and all stroke survivors, while fundraising for the Stroke
Foundation’s rehabilitation programme.
Nick experienced ‘Locked in Syndrome’ after a series of brain stem
strokes, following a rugby accident in 2000. This left him unable to
walk or talk, at age 27. But with the help of rehabilitation he is
achieving incredible things everyday, pushing the boundaries of
possibilities, with a smile on his face. Everyone who meets him is
affected by his positive energy.
“Nick is an absolute legend,” says Jup. “A man of determination and
power, not only mental strength, but physical strength – like you
wouldn't believe.” Nick says he is thrilled Jup has decided to take
on this challenge. Nick says, “Raising awareness will make people
appreciate the effort it takes for stroke victims to accomplish
everyday tasks that they take for granted.”
After a gruelling 69 days, Jup finished his epic journey in Auckland
on November 8 2011.
For more about
Jup's challenge, click here
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