RACING from Auckland to Queenstown with little more than $10 in your pocket is a challenge that would daunt the lightest and most economical traveller.
However, two Bright Sparks are unfazed by the possible calamities that await them and are instead focusing on raising as much hard cash as possible for Cure Kids.
When the sun comes up on September 30, Ben and his daughter Sam Brown will start the journey of their lives – the Novotel $10 Queenstown Challenge.
Mr Brown says they will be charging off from Ellerslie’s Novotel hotel to a mystery destination, which will be the first stop on their fundraising expedition across the country.
They will complete a challenge there before begging a ride to the next stop.
Mr Brown entered the event three years ago with his brother, but it will be Sam’s first time on the road with her father.
“It’s a lot of fun and a very good cause,” he says.
“Seeing how organised they are and reading what Cure Kids has done, it’s definitely worth donating to the charity. The administration expenses are quite low, so the majority of the money that is raised goes to research.”
The Browns, of Whitford, will be hitching rides with whoever picks them up, whether it’s the local police force or an obliging truckie.
With only $10 they certainly won’t be paying for transport but their fluorescent outfits, bolstered by Mr Brown’s outgoing personality, guarantee to keep plenty of free rides coming.
“You get positive feedback from people. The further south you get, the more people know what we’re doing. The local radio stations talk about us and in the South Island you’re well looked after.”
The event is no longer a race but father and daughter plan to make their way to each destination as quickly as possible so they don’t have to wait to complete their challenges.
As well as feeding their competitive and adventurous spirit, the Browns will be rattling buckets under everybody’s noses seeking donations for Cure Kids.
To further boost their fundraising effort the Browns are planning to run a raffle before leaving Auckland, and they are asking local businesses and the community for donations of prizes. Anything would be appreciated, especially if it inspires people to part with their dollars.
Sam is near to completing year 13 at Saint Kentigern College in Pakuranga and hopes her school mates will support her endeavour.
A school mufti-day is planned and she will drum up support when addressing the school assembly.
“They think what I’m doing is great but I don’t think they want to do it themselves,” says Sam.
“Last time the teams had to bungy jump and I’m not keen to do that, but dad says you have to get out of your comfort zone.”
She admits she doesn’t always see eye to eye with her father and Mr Brown jokes he is always right. After all someone has to take charge.
• To support Cure Kids and donate through the Browns’ campaign go to www.fundraiseonline.co.nz/benandsamanthabrown/ or contact Mr Brown, phone 0274-314-205.
