Craig Norman and Neelu Jennings training for the cycle leg...

Visually impaired adventurer Neelu Jennings and Optimed’s Craig Norman are teaming up in April to race the Porirua Grand Traverse.

Celebrating two decades of action and fun, the multisport event involves legs in a double kayak (12k), a tandem mountain bike (28k) and a supported trail run (18k).

Jennings lost about 70% of her vison and acquired a balance impairment following a brain injury and ensuing coma at 16 years old; she can see blurry shapes and colour but has little depth perception.

...and the kayak section

Not letting these challenges hold her back, Jennings was determined to continue pursuing her passion for adventure sports and has excelled in them. After summitting Mt Aspiring in 2010, she began pushing herself further and has since climbed Mt Kilimanjaro, skied the Tasman Glacier, paddled across Wellington Harbour and, in 2012, became the first legally blind person to complete the Coast to Coast with support.

A keen mountain biker, Norman rode with Jennings about 15 years ago and, last year, she asked if he’d be interested in supporting her in the mountain bike leg of the Porirua event. “I decided to offer support for all three disciplines. I have enjoyed our training sessions together and the event definitely provides motivation to get out and keep fit!”

Stoked to have Norman’s support, Jennings said her teammate is absolutely integral to every part of the race. “He’s so committed whatever happens, he won’t get upset, he will stick with me and see it through.”

Having not raced in the six years since having her kids, Jennings said she’s both excited and nervous about the event. “It’s a six-hour race, which used to be easily manageable; now I’m thinking, wow, six hours, that’s quite a long time! I’m fortunate to have Craig by my side – he’s the best person to be doing this with,” she said.

Also supporting Jennings, Essilor has gifted her a pair of Oakley prescription glasses, for which Maile Tarsau from Eye Spy Optometrists in Palmerston North has provided a free eye test and fitting. “We are lucky to have this support,” Norman said.

Go team, have a great race! For anyone interested in sponsoring the team, please email: craig@optimed.co.nz