As I write this I am sitting in the Howick Squash Club.
It is 6:45 in the morning on Saturday, April 11.
We are less than 2 hours into James’ 36-hour-long squash marathon.
He is playing with his dad Brett in hopes of setting a new Guinness World Record!
In 2008 the athletic Meyer men set the same record, playing 25 hours and 55 minutes.
However, the record has been broken numerous times since… and it currently sits at 33 hours. So they’ve set out to smash it again!
Today, like 7 years ago, their grueling challenge is in the name of raising funds for the Child Cancer Foundation.
Tessa, James’ sister, pointed out to me that the squash record-breaking community is supportive of each other.
“The vision from the beginning has been to do this for a good cause and every successive record breaker has also raised money for their chosen charity. The greater effect of the challenge transcends their singular effort”, she explained as we sat courtside Saturday morning.
The goal James and Brett have set is $36,000. As of right now, they have reached $16,602.
Like last time, they are pushing their bodies and spirits to the limit, in honor of their very dear friend Michael Clarke.
Three days before the 2008 record, 13-year-old Michael passed away after a 16-month-long battle with bone and then ultimately lung cancer.
His bravery, courage and strength was and is immensely inspirational.
His memory motivates James and Brett today as they fight for children that show such brilliant strength as they fight cancer.
You can donate to the Meyers’ world record at their official Everyday Hero account HERE.
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Hour three – We’re one hour away from the guys’ first break. They earn 5 minutes of break time for every hour they play. They’ve elected to play their first four hours without a break. For their first break they will only take 5 minutes, saving the other 15 minutes for later on when they really need it.
Hour five – TV ONE NZ came to interview the guys. They were able to answer some questions during their short five-minute break, while also scarfing down pikelets with jam and banana loaf.
Hour six – Some blisters and back pain but overall their energy and spirits are high. Your support is crucial so come on down to the Howick Squash Club and get loud for these amazing athletes!
MEDIA
TVNZ OneNews: http://tvnz.co.nz/national-news/father-and-son-attempt-world-record-squash-marathon-6279808
Howick & Pakuranga Times: http://www.times.co.nz/sports-news/smashing-rubber-to-regain-record.html