Drew Gormlie, Mick Smithers and Scott Wellard are going that extra mile for young people.
By Ed Merrison
JUST one day remains before Mick Smithers’ superhuman feet pave the way for better youth services in Casey.
Mr Smithers embarks on his 110km walk around the City of Casey’s perimeter on Friday evening, and he hopes the public will step up and lend its support.
He has been training since July for the 200,000 Steps initiative and sets off from Range Bank Primary School in Cranbourne at 7pm.
Mr Smithers hopes to amble back on to the school grounds at 10am on Sunday morning having passed through everywhere from Endeavour Hills to Narre Warren, Berwick and Tooradin.
He has been helped in his preparation by a month’s free gym membership and the loan of a treadmill, and has been getting into his stride with a couple of 20km walks.
The Cranbourne panel beater hopes his new healthy eating habits will stay with him for life, but admits he is no natural athlete.
“I’m no sportsman or anything like that, I’m just an average Joe – I’ll even be working on Friday before the walk,” he said.
“But I feel there aren’t enough programs in place for the youth of Casey and I want to help a few kids.
“It’s something I’m passionate about.”
Mr Smithers’ team-mates Scott Wellard and Drew Gormlie share this passion, and have been busy raising funds and beating a safe path for the Hampton Park marathon man.
Every cent raised by the walk will go towards programs such as drug and alcohol-free concerts, three-on-three basketball tournaments and an outdoor adventure youth mentoring program.
“Everyone has really got behind it,” Mr Smithers said. “Individuals and companies big and small want to put something in, and that’s great.”
Family members and workmates will take a stroll with Mr Smithers, and wife Esther will bring along the pram so 10-month-old daughter Anastacia can do her bit.
“Everyone’s welcome,” Mr Smithers said.
“The more people who know about it and come along the better.”
You would think that this easygoing everyman would be quaking in his runners, but he’s not at all.
In fact, the team has already decided to go that extra mile and make it an annual event.
“I couldn’t be looking forward to it more than I am. Sore legs or not, I’m going to make it,” Mr Smithers said.
Anyone wanting to follow the progress of Mr Smithers and the team or donate money can visit www.200000steps.com.au
