It may be a bit premature to offer congratulations to Lucy-Anne Brickley, so instead let's say a hearty "well done".
It's premature only in the sense that Lucy-Anne has so far to go to realise her dream of becoming a rescue helicopter pilot. That should not detract, though, from thework she has put in already to achieving her goal.
Lucy-Anne has won a national magazine competition that will provide much-needed funds to help her on her way. Those who argue it is just a popularity contest in a teenage magazine miss the point. They also fail to see the sacrifice and determination already displayed.
How many other teenagers in her position would devote so much time in pursuit of a far-off goal, even for something they felt passionate about? How many would have the nous or vision to consider what they want to do "when they grow up"? Not many, and even fewer could resist the temptation to blow the earnings from the part-time job on something that might provide more of an immediate pay-off than an investment in the future. The world is full of juicy temptations for teenagers: clothes, parties, gadgets, travel, sport and more.
Despite the progress already made, Lucy-Anne has a long road ahead if she is to achieve her aim. With 200 hours' flying time at a cost of more than $100,000, reaching the end will be no mean feat.
And, as we all know, life has its way of throwing up the unexpected, meaning there will be new obstacles to navigate and fresh challenges to overcome.
In Lucy-Anne's case, there is every reason to believe she will succeed. This is not some pipe dream she has just imagined, as evidenced by the work she has put in already. She shows a maturity and responsibility far beyond her years.
Her spirit and dedication make her a welcome addition to the Chronicle front-page club. She serves as an example to us all of the benefit of setting a goal and working step by step towards its attainment. It should surprise no one when she earns her status as a bona fide pilot. All the best, Lucy-Anne, we look forward to seeing that story on the front page as well.
