North Shore based police officer Simon Colbert will be hoping he can generate more than a waddle when he races on behalf of the Meningitis Trust in the upcoming Auckland Racing Club 'Mascot Dash for Charity Cash'.
Mr Colbert will be taking place in the event for the second year running after placing fourth in the 2006 event and it will be his first time in the event since he graduated as a probationary constable earlier this year.
Simon's reasons for dressing up as 'Monty the Duck' and taking part in the event run deep as his son contracted pneumococcal meningitis when he was four months old. Since this introduction to the disease Simon has actively supported his wife to establish the Meningitis Trust.
Established in 2002, the Trust has since grown into a national organisation which has successfully raised awareness of the disease and frequently supports families who are confronted by its devastating effects.
When questioned about his involvement in the Dash for Cash and the Meningitis Trust, Simon explained that it boils down to two things - courage and hope. Simon is a firm believer that good things are worth fighting for and when adversity strikes, the most logical response is to take action to positively fight against it in order to make a difference for the future.
This belief also motivated Simon to pursue policing as a career and since joining NZ Police he has had plenty of opportunities to contribute to the community and gain some uniquely satisfying work experiences along the way. Simon considers his current role to be his most rewarding so far and strongly encourages anyone who is interested in joining NZ Police to make the first step by calling 0800 NEWCOPS.
The 'Mascot Dash for Charity Cash' is taking place at the Ellerslie Race Course on 1 January 2007.
Media contact (photos available): Gary Allcock 027 271 1683