Dear Dad,

On the 30th of September 2020 our world stopped. The day before it was business as usual, we talked about the stock market, how friends and family were going, had a laugh and always finished the conversation with I love you. During the month of September we would talk about the challenge I set out to complete, to run 564km for the Robert Connor Dawes Foundation, which in true Johnno fashion seemed impossible but we didn’t see things that way. On the 30th of September, I had left myself the distance of a marathon to finish the challenge with, everything was ready but I was missing a huge part of me that would help me get across the finish line. Sam and I went home to be with Mum and quarantine for 14 days. During this time, something truly special happened, friends from around Australia came together and each ran a part of the Marathon I had to finish, whilst those who I grew up with from home presented me with something I will cherish for the rest of my life. In a time where I felt so alone, everyone showed their support and I couldn’t be more thankful.

So Dad, this is my tribute to you for your birthday, as much as we like to make the impossible possible, I thought what better way to finish off a challenge then to start a new one. On the 5th of December 2021, I will be competing in the Ironman Western Australia and after 3.8km of swimming and 180km of riding, I will finish the challenge I set out in September in a way only you would know how and run the 42.2km. I love and miss you every day Dad and you will be right beside me as I cross the finish line.

To Friends and Family,

As a part of the challenge, I have set a goal to raise $10,000 for Movember and The Mobart Mobros, the leading charity changing the face of men’s health on a global scale, focusing on mental health and suicide prevention. Any amount big or small is greatly appreciated and I hope those who have their own stories can come together to talk about something which is so important in Men. Thank you