For Mr Brett Andreassen, Technical Manager, taking part in this year’s Round the Bays was more than a run. It marked 40 years since he met his now-wife, Helen, at a Round the Bays after-party.
Back in 1986, a last-minute decision to enter the event led to an unexpected meeting. Mr Andreassen and Helen reached for the last bottle of beer in a chilly bin at the same time. A friendly tussle followed by a long conversation resulted in the start of a relationship that has now lasted four decades.
This year, the pair returned to the event together to mark that anniversary.
“A lot has happened in forty years personally,” Mr Andreassen says.
The milestone offered them a moment to reflect on how much has changed beyond their own lives.
“It was interesting to see how diverse Auckland has become with some many different people taking part in the event.”
Looking back at the moment that brought him and Helen together, Mr Andreassen said it was the best last-minute decision he had ever taken.
“Maybe some of the young ones will meet their future partners too.”
As for whether they celebrated the run with a beer, Mr Andreassen says, “No beers unfortunately, how times have changed.
“Sausage sizzle and ice cream at the end and then home for a nap.”
For Ryan Tongapuna, Wellbeing and Safety Manager, taking part in this year’s Round the Bays was about creating a core memory with his six-year-old son Phoenix.
After recently discovering a love for running, Ryan decided to sign them both up, hoping to spark the same interest in the next generation.
It was Phoenix’s first-time taking part in the event, and finishing the course brought a moment he will remember.
“Together, we managed to run it in just over 1 hour 6 minutes.
“This was Phoenix’s first time, and he was so proud of himself and the medal he got afterwards, his first medal,” says his proud father.
After crossing the finish line, the celebrations continued down at St Heliers Beach.
Father and son marked the occasion with a jump into the water before joining friends for a celebratory barbecue.
Brett, that’s adorable! What a great story 🙂