'Fair-weather paddlers' keen for action

North Shore Hospice employees Sonya Sheehan, Jenna Tuuta, Lynn Kenyon and Jo Lawrence know their entry fee benefits the charity they work for.

For Beach Series organiser Nick Carroll, choosing a charity partner as the event's beneficiary was easy.

"Supporting Hospice North Shore through a charity partnership was an obvious choice. A close family relative passed away at an early age at Hospice and the compassion and care with which she was treated was second to none," says Carroll.

"Hospice was absolutely fantastic and made this terrible experience a little bit easier for everyone involved. You have to be a special person to volunteer at Hospice so if I can do something to give back to this organisation, I am very proud to do so."

The dedication and commitment shown by Hospice workers is illustrated by three women who are giving back to the community twofold.

Lynn Kenyon, 47, Sonya Sheehan, 40, and Jo Lawrence, 51, are all Hospice North Shore employees. This season, they have learned to stand-up paddleboard (SUP), taking part in the Beach Series for the first time.

"For us as beginners, it was a great way to learn. Everyone is so friendly and even the advanced stand-up paddle boarders are really positive and supportive out on the course.

"Sonya and I used to call ourselves 'fair-weather paddlers' but now we are keen to take on the course, whatever the weather throws at us," says Kenyon.

The final event of Australasia's largest weekly multi-sport is fast approaching: on Tuesday March 22, Takapuna Beach will host the annual charity grand finale. Participants of all ages are encouraged to run, swim or SUP in fancy dress to celebrate the end of another fun-filled season.

"Hospice North Shore is privileged to be the charity partner for this great community event," says Hospice North Shore community fundraiser Carol Herbert. "It's a great example of 'community helping community' with the Takapuna Beach Series helping people on the North Shore who need Hospice care."

Beach Series
What: Beach run, ocean swim or stand-up paddle
When: Tuesday March 15 and series final March 22
Where: Takapuna Beach
For more information: www.beachseries.co.nz