Inspirational Keoghan wins Emmy; Matt keeps cycling
By Tim O?Connell?????????????????
Conquering three big inclines, discovering new horizons and contact with Emmy winner Phil Keoghan have ensured Matt Oliver?s journey to Taupo has already made some positive inroads. In between organising training rides for his fledgling cycle team and gaining a new-found? media profile, our proactive peddler chalked up several impressive rides early in his quest. On top of that, his cycling has allowed the unassuming Maungaraki husband and father of two to enjoy new perspectives about the people and area he lives in. ?I have come across a great sub-culture of people who love cafes and cycling. ?There are some amazing views, back roads that you'd never see, and a massive culture of similar-minded people who will help and encourage you,? Aside from mastering the winding hills around the Western Hutt on numerous occasions, Matt has also undertaken challenging hill climbs around Paekakariki and Pukerua Bay. Meanwhile after a brief plateau at 112kg, the recent training means things are, in Matt?s words, ?going in the right direction again?. Team numbers have swelled to six for the event, and Matt said the level of commitment shown by the others is extremely high. While the team prepare for the long term goal of the Taupo cycle challenge next year, there is still plenty of room for others to join upcoming rides. ??? ?I am doing this not only for my own benefit, but to inspire others to get out and get fit. ?Anyone who wants to join up, even if it?s just to train with us, is most welcome.? ?To me, this is partially about giving back, which is something that has been on my mind lately.? ? Matt?s story Matt Oliver changed his life after his doctor warned him about his 130kg weight. Thanks to some inspiration from TV star Phil Keoghan?s book No Opportunity Wasted, Matt got a bike and started cycling for his life. Recent Emmy winner Keoghan and his wife Louise have since said they were delighted to read Matt?s story in the Petone Herald. He plans to compete in the 2009 Taupo Challenge and has shed about 20kg already.
