Week-long jet-ski ride in the name of melanoma

4 March 2016

Week-long jet-ski ride in the name of melanoma

A squad of Kiwi jet ski enthusiasts is about to embark on a seven day, 650 kilometre ocean ride to raise funds for Melanoma New Zealand and boost awareness of the deadly disease.

Approximately 60 participants will take part in the fourth annual Yamaha Melanoma New Zealand Ski-nZ event, in which they will travel between Opononi and Leigh from Sunday 6 March until Saturday 12 March.

Melanoma survivor and event organiser Jeremy Burfoot says the adventure is a way for water sport enthusiasts to raise funds and awareness to fight a disease that kills more than 300 Kiwis each year.

“This trip will be no doubt a lot of fun, but what’s more important is that we’re supporting Melanoma New Zealand in its mission to prevent avoidable deaths from melanoma and support people affected by the disease,” Jeremy says.

Melanoma New Zealand CEO Linda Flay is grateful for the enthusiasm and involvement of participants.

“It’s great to have their support and backing,” Linda says. “They’re helping us raise vital funds in the fight against melanoma.”

Departing from Opononi in the Hokianga Harbour, the group will make stops at Ahipara, Parengarenga Harbour, Mangonui, Russell and Tutukaka, before landing at Leigh. A fundraising auction night will be held in Russell on Wednesday 9 March.

To enter, participants had to raise a minimum of $1,500 in individual sponsorship money. The group is aiming to top last year’s $56,000 fundraising total collectively.

Participants also have to obey strict safety requirements while on the trip.

“In keeping with the high safety standards and given that this event is helping to promote awareness of melanoma, participants will be required to wear a life jacket, full face helmet, eye protection, gloves, shoes, and a full-length rash suit or wetsuit for sun protection,” said Jeremy.

For more information visit http://www.melanoma.org.nz/news-events/upcoming-events/yamaha/.

To make a donation to Melanoma New Zealand, please visit www.melanoma.org.nz.

ENDS

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