Bunnythorpe's Tim Johnson is training for the Sky Tower Stair Climb in May. Photo/Supplied
Bunnythorpe's Tim Johnson is training for the Sky Tower Stair Climb in May. Photo/Supplied
The first Bunnythorpe local to compete in the Sky Tower Stair Climb is well into his training, despite having to fit it around full-time work and two volunteer roles.
Tim Johnson, 22, is dedicated to completing the stair climb in May and is training three times a week by continuouslyrunning up and down the FMG and State Insurance buildings in town.
"It's good for fitness, it's enjoyable and if you can help other people out, why not," he said. "We have the opportunity as fit people to do these kinds of things. It's a good challenge."
As well as training and full-time work as a trainee quarryman, Mr Johnson is in the process of completing his national diploma in ambulance practice through St John and is a volunteer firefighter with the Bunnythorpe Fire Brigade.
The stair climb event is a popular one with the 700 spots being booked out in 23 minutes. Firefighters don 25kg worth of firefighting equipment for the 1103 step climb.
With each participant having to raise a minimum of $1000, it's a major fundraiser for Leukaemia and Blood Cancer New Zealand. To raise his share, Mr Johnson is organising a services open day in Bunnythorpe on February 2, with participation from various service groups.
"It's something to do that the local community can get involved in," Mr Johnson said.
A career with St John is Mr Johnson's long-term plan, with a degree in paramedicine his next step.
