ASB funding a custom-made racing wheelchair

ASB funding a custom-made racing wheelchair for a competitor

To celebrate the inclusion of a wheelchair category in this year’s ASB Auckland marathon, ASB is giving away a custom-built racing wheelchair for one lucky competitor.

The wheelchair will be made to order and built in the US before being shipped to New Zealand.

The recipient will have their marathon entry fee funded and be given the chance to compete in the inaugural category which will see competitors race over Auckland’s Harbour Bridge and around the city.

ASB head of community and sponsorship Mark Graham says ASB is excited to open the event up to a wider audience.

“The ASB Auckland marathon is all about progress - seeing people set their own personal challenges and achieve them. It’s a sporting event for all Kiwis who are driven by a desire to succeed, no matter their ability.

“In that spirit, different race distances have been added over the years and we’re thrilled by the inclusion of a wheelchair category.

“In recognition of this new category, ASB is giving away a custom-built racing wheelchair which we hope will help someone be part of this historical event,” Graham says.

Applications for the wheelchair will open on Tuesday 31 July with the recipient announced on Monday 27 August.

Race Director Bec Williams says the inclusion of the new category is the result of months of hard work and planning.

“This is hugely significant for the event and for our wheelchair racing athletes, bringing the ASB Auckland Marathon in line with many of the world’s iconic big city marathon events,” she says.

Entrants for this year’s event in the wheelchair category will be selected by the Halberg Disability Sport Foundation, Achilles New Zealand, and event organisers.

"ASB is proud to be in its fifth year of sponsoring the ASB Auckland marathon,” Graham says.

“It’s a fantastic event to get behind and we look forward to seeing the runners take to the course in October.”

ENDS

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