Inspirational mum spurs business battle

They're calling it the Tracey Richardson effect _ and it's added an intriguing sub-plot of big business rivalry to Saturday's Port of Tauranga half ironman.
The Port, keen to front with more than just a bundle of cash to throw at the winners, have taken a lead this year not only by entering a team themselves but also encouraging key clients to enter.
And they've done it with the help of inspirational Hawkes Bay triathlete and mother-of-five Tracey Richardson.
Three years ago Richardson was obese _ a Napier housewife who weighed more than 90kg and couldn't hang out the washing without getting out of breath.
In 18 months, she'd got fit enough to finish the New Zealand Ironman triathlon _ a 3.8km swim, 180km cycle and a marathon run, all on the same day.
Richardson is well-known as the face of the Special K women's triathlon on television, and has two children with Cystic Fibrosis (CF). She went on to race in the Ironman Hawaii, raising more than $300,000 for CF awareness.
The Port worked with key clients last year providing motivational speakers, with Richardson's story touching many.
"It's been a wonderful response," Port of Tauranga commerce manager Graeme Marshall said.
"With the help and inspiration of Tracey Richardson, we now have 15 teams from a wide range of the Port's customers entered."
In addition, these teams have had the help of the event organisers and the coaching skills of former world champion Jenny Rose, who has provided a training plan for the buildup to Saturday's race.
"That's helped create a really supportive environment inside those companies, a great team-building exercise and some fun along the way," Marshall said.
The companies taking part include McKays Shipping, Balance Agri-Nutrients, Quadrant Pacific Line, Tasman Orient Line, NYK Line, Sofrana Uni Lines, CP Ships, Zespri, FESCO and Port of Tauranga.
Zespri grower liaison manager Carol Gardiner will lead out her team on Saturday, backed by Peter Thomas on the bike and Paul Ricketts running the 21.1km half marathon.
Although they won't threaten the No1-seeded Nike dream team _ five times New Zealand Ironman champion Cameron Brown, Olympic champion Hamish Carter and marathoner Dale Warrander _ Gardiner will ensure her team is competitive.
She completed last month's Taupo half ironman as an individual but is looking forward to revving up her workmates after getting her swim leg out of the way early.
Gardiner said Richardson's story couldn't help but inspire many at Zespri to get out and make the most of their opportunities.