Taupo man to circle NZ in gyrocopter for cancer
Thursday 5 February 2009, 8:51AM
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Local Taupo resident Sid Lane will be undertaking a once in a lifetime challenge this month in his gyrocopter to raise money for cancer.
Sid has been flying gyrocopters for over 40 years and following a recent rocky patch with his health, he has decided to do something that has never been done before whilst raising money for a great cause. He has set himself the challenge of circumnavigating New Zealand’s coastline in his gryocopter, travelling a distance of 5,500km in total.
“I want to show cancer sufferer’s that there are still opportunities for everyone after cancer,” said Sid, who was diagnosed with throat cancer last April and who has since been given the all- clear after an exhaustive six months of chemotherapy and radiation treatment.
Sid will start his adventure at the end of this week and is hoping to finish his adventure within 10 days. “It will all depend on the weather conditions,” says Sid. He will have a camera attached to his helmet so that he captures footage of his adventure and will carry a spare petrol tank, just in case, in the backseat of the gyrocopter.
Sid will start off in Taupo and his first trip will be to Whakatane, Napier then Gisbourne. From there he will head down to the South Island, then around to the west coast heading back up to the North Island, then up to Cape Reinga and back down to the east coast before returning to Taupo.
Taupo District Mayor Rick Cooper is excited by Sid’s mission and encourages the country to support the cause. “Good on you and good luck Sid – the people of Taupo are right behind you and we are looking forward to welcoming you home in about two weeks time,” said Mayor Rick.
Westpac Bank Taupo is setting up a trust and anyone who wants to make a donation towards Sid’s challenge can do so at any branch of Westpac New Zealand.
“The money will be put towards cancer,” says Sid. “Thank you to the eight local businesses who have already come forward with sponsorship and Taupo District Council for their support,” he said.