A Papamoa man whose family spent nine weeks living in Ronald McDonald House is hoping to attract 150 anglers to a fishing competition in Mount Maunganui this Saturday which will raise money for the organisation.
Mike Speed's son, Ryan, was born with major heart abnormalities, undergoing major heart surgery when he
was just a week old.
Ryan died at four months, but not before Mr Speed and his family had appreciated the value of families having free accommodation near Starship Children's Hospital.
This is the second year Mr Speed has run The Equaliser Invitational fishing contest, which offers $20,000 in prizes.
"Entries are sitting around 70, and we expect a reasonable influx in the day or two before. We are hoping to get to 120 as a minimum, but would really like to be 150-plus," Mr Speed said.
A briefing for the contest will be held at the Mount Ocean Sports Club, Salisbury Wharf on Friday at 7.30pm. Fishing begins at 7.30am on Saturday. To register contact Mike Speed on (027) 2739 396 or email speedmf@hotmail.com
Entries can also be made in person at Mount Ocean Sports Club.
Junior entries are $25 and adults $50 with all proceeds going to Ronald McDonald House.
