Meet our Gold Coast Marathon favourites
(Credit: Shairon Paterson)
Eight keen Papua New Guinean runners, along with two Salvation Army officers, are getting set to compete in July’s Gold Coast Marathon.
The resilient runners are being mentored by personnel from the Australia Eastern Territory, including Commissioner James Condon, Lt Colonel David Godkin and Aged Care Plus CEO Sharon Callister. All of the mentors will be competing in the marathon also.
Over the next few weeks, we’ll meet the runners from Papua New Guinea and hear their stories.
Dorothy Gabi – newbie marathon runner
18-year-old Dorothy has ambitions to work in the medicine or nursing.
Now in grade 11 at school, she has a love for sport, especially running, netball and volleyball. She says taking part in this marathon will be an amazing opportunity.
“What really excites me the most is that it’s a great opportunity for me to come to Australia and take part in the marathon – running against so many people from different countries around the world,” says Dorothy.
She’s found the training to be tough, as she hasn’t run in marathons before.
“I’m happy I’m able to run and represent my country Papua New Guinea, and my church, The Salvation Army.
“With all God’s help there will be no toughness or difficulties.”
Willie Gobana – has his eye on the finish line
Willie, 21, says completing the marathon will be an achievement in itself. He has been training three times a week and watching what he eats.
He has grown up in The Salvation Army, with his parents as officers. Having a personal connection like this, he has a deep respect for The Salvation Army.
“To me, The Salvation Army means that if I’ve been saved spiritually, then it’s my duty to serve others. In other words – saved to serve,” says Willie.
While Willie is being mentored for the marathon, he says the ultimate mentor for life is Jesus.
“My main focus is to finish off the destination that has been prepared at the end of the journey,” he says.
“The best piece of advice I received was from one of my mentors. They said ‘no matter how fast or slow you run, the main thing is that you finish the race’.”
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