BOPDHB Checkup February 2018 | Page 16

Oxfam the epic challenge The countdown’s on to what’s fast becoming one of the Bay of Plenty’s stand out events - the OxfamTrailwalker in Whakatāne. We caught up with one of our many staff who will be stepping forward for the trailwalk on 10 March, Troy Browne, Medical Leader – Surgical Services. Covering distances of either 100km or 50km is one half of the event. The other is funding for Oxfam's vital work in reducing poverty in the world's poorest communities. The Walking Horses of Troy The Walking Horses of Troy as the team is aptly named, has opted to represent BOPDHB in the challenge. The team plans to walk/run the 100km trail in a fast time of 18 – 24 hours. Troy and Karen Hall were in the DHB team that completed the inaugural Whakatāne Oxfam 100km event in 2016. That epic event is etched in the minds of all participants – the weather was appalling. Patrick White, was one of our fantastic support crew members, and was able to walk a good piece of the track as well. In 2017 Troy walked with an Auckland crew on an improved course. Karen was in the support crew, and the weather was much kinder. This year sees quite a large change to the course, which will make it unpredictable. The Walking Horses of Troy are: Troy Browne - This will be my third OXFAM 100km and first as Team Leader. Patrick White (Nurse Educator – Mental Health) - A keen runner but had a setback in May with a broken neck after a fall from my bike. Karen Hall (Occupational Therapist) - The experienced athlete that holds the team together, advanced knowledge of foot preparation and management. Lauren Assink (Pharmacist) - The trail walking rookie, who is not quite sure what she’s signed herself up for. (Always carries a large snack pack). We’re looking forward to an awesome walk and being able to help others. To find out more or to track our team’s progress during the challenge see: https://www.oxfamtrailwalker.org.nz/otw18/ teams/walking-horses-troy Good luck to all our staff members in other teams taking part in this challenge. We hope the weather is on your side! The Walking Horses of Troy in training. 16