Andrew Bendall

New York 2018 Marathon

Andrew Bendall (Bandit)

Farming in Central Otago between Cromwell and Wanaka on an intensive Sheep & Beef property for the last 6 year,. I have run the last 3 Queenstown Marathons with progressively better times.  Last year’s challenge on the morning of the race was “if I do under 3.14 we would go to New York”. I came over the line in 3.11. So here we are!!

I started running again while working as a Rep for NZ Agriseeds (where I met Chris Lovelady) to stay in some form of shape as I progressed through my 40’s and realised it was also very therapeutic and great for my head space!!

Now it’s an effective way of staying fit and provides challenges to work towards, its been great for increasing mental toughness and the ability to push ones’ self beyond where you thought you could.

So, the “Catwalk Trust” was an obvious fit. I was born and bred in the Wairarapa so knew of Catrina & Sam and a lot of their friends some who had done the NY marathon with the trust.

Talking of “mental toughness” I just have total admiration for anyone who has got or gone through any sort of spinal injury. Their ability to not only stay positive but challenge and encourage others to better themselves and not let their injury hold them back.

To be part of the 2018 team heading to New York and to raise money and awareness of the “Catwalk Trust” will be a tremendous privilege.

So, what’s my target??? Well I figure there will be no better time, place and cause to do a “sub 3” hour marathon.

Photo attached: Queenstown 2017 Marathon with 200 meters to Go!!

New York 2018 Marathon