28 December 2004

Competitors in the Red Cross-Herald Sun Murray Marathon are inspired by enthusiasm, competitiveness and the ambition to succeed, but this year, they're using love too.

Woodridge local, David Rodesky, began paddling in Yarrawonga on the January 27 with determination in his eye and a fire in his heart. One of 748 paddlers in the race this year, Ridesky hopes to cross into his lady's heart when he crosses the finishing line.

"She told me she really loved this race with a passion. So I thought I'd enter it to try and impress her," he said.

But despite being driven by lust for love, the 39-year-old doesn't hide the fact that he is also eager to place in the top three for personal reasons.

With more than 3000 paddlers, volunteers and support staff, the Red Cross-Herald Sun Murray Marathon is the longest internationally accredited canoeing event in the world. To complete the distance, paddlers must battle the burning sun, fierce winds, mosquitoes and blister upon blister.

"I also see this race as a personal achievement. At the moment, I'm really just focusing on getting through day one. I'm going to give this (marathon) a shot and accomplish something for myself," he said.

Fundraising Manager of the Australian Red Cross, John Powell, hopes the Red Cross Herald Sun Murray Marathon will raise $200,000 in 2004.

"The funds raised from this event are crucial to providing services for the most vulnerable in our community. The Red Cross would not be able to provide essential services such as disaster support and emergency response without the funds raised through this event," he said.

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