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For immediate release
September 21st, 2005

Local Man runs 24-hour challenge for charity

Big Pete Mitchell, 31, of Christchurch will be entering the NZ 24-hour Track Running Champs at Sovereign Stadium, Auckland from 9am on 1st to 9am on 2nd October 2005.

Nearly 20 competitors from across the country will be taking part in this gruelling 24-hour race. Pete’s not just going to make up the numbers and anticipates running an amazing 160-180 km within the time limit. While this is no mean feat in itself, Pete will be also be raising funds for both the Mental Health Foundation and Diabetes NZ (M.a.D Run Campaign).

Pete said, “I am really excited to be able to compete in this event as I have developed a real love of running over the last few years. I’m keen to support both of these charities as I have been diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes and Bipolar Disorder. I know the awareness and money I raise will really make a difference. If local people or companies would like to support me, then it would be great to hear from them.”

Pete goes on to say, “I have been growing my beard since July 1st when I started ‘The M.a.D Run Campaign’ and am waiting until the day before the race to shave it off! There are a number of reasons I have chosen to do this, one being to make a comparison with Forrest Gump as most people associate Forrest’s running antics with his ever-growing beard. “

Bipolar affective disorder is another name for what was once known as manic depression. About one person in a hundred is affected by it. ‘Bipolar’ describes the mood fluctuations – from the extremely elated mood (mania) to the very low mood (depression) – that people with this condition may experience.

Diabetes is where the body does not create enough insulin and is unable to convert glucose into energy, and the level of glucose in the blood rises. Diabetes is a world epidemic and there are over 115,000 people in NZ currently diagnosed with diabetes with about 10% of these having Type 1. Type 1 Diabetics do not make any insulin (or very little) therefore they require insulin by injection plus healthy eating to stay alive and maintain good health.

ENDS

Please support The M.a.D Run Campaign by making a donation at www.fundraiseonline.co.nz/MaDRun [or call into any Shoe Clinic Store].

M.a.D Run Campaign DVDs will be available for a minimum donation of $10 with all profits going to the charities.

For information on Pete’s charities of choice visit:
www.mentalhealth.org.nz www.diabetes.org.nz