Patrick Takurua's story

In February 2025, Patrick Takurua will be running in the Wellington Round the Bays half-marathon event. Below, he explains what made him want to sign up for this event and fundraise for the Stroke Foundation:

What made you want to sign up for Round the Bays this year?

I've been trying to build-up my fitness over the last year, and some mates encouraged me to sign-up for the half marathon. I think it's a great challenge, and it definitely keeps me focused and motivated.

What made you want to fundraise for the Stroke Foundation?

Strokes have directly impacted by family. Nearly ten years ago, our gran survived a stroke. We're lucky to still have her around, but it had a huge impact. I know she is just one of thousands of New Zealanders who have experienced strokes. For that reason, I'm really proud to be fundraising for the Stroke Foundation, helping to support other survivors and their families. 

What do you hope your fundraising helps to achieve?

I'm obviously hoping that the money raised can help to deliver support for survivors of strokes and their whānau. I also hope to raise awareness about what people can do in their everyday lives to reduce the risk of strokes impacting them and their loved ones.

Do you have a goal time you're aiming for?

Yes! Completing the half marathon in under 1 hours and 50 minutes would be great!

Anything else you want to share?

I really want to thank the Stroke Foundation for all the amazing work it does to help prevent strokes, raise awareness, and support survivors.

Check out Patrick's fundraising page here: https://rtbwellington25.grassrootz.com/the-stroke-foundation-of-new-zealand/patrick-takurua