By GEORGIA WESTGARTH
FOCUSING on the 88 flights instead of the 1642 stairs that make up Melbourne’s tallest building, Cranbourne resident Victoria Norris is taking on the Eureka Climb this November.
One of the highest vertical races in the world the annual steps race is both a personal goal for Ms Norris and a chance to make a change in a young person’s life.
Fund-raising for Whitelion, which supports youth at risk, and Interplast, helping those in the Asia Pacific region, Ms Norris said since taking on the challenge in May she’s learnt a whole lot about people doing it tough.
“I’ve learnt that there’s a lot more kids in need than I ever thought,” she said.
“We do take our day-to-day life for granted and this has put things into perspective like just having food to eat, shelter and family around you.”
Aiming to lose 30 kilograms after giving birth to her first child a year ago, Ms Norris said it’s been amazing just how quickly the training has impacted her life.
“Six months ago I couldn’t even recognise myself in photos and I decided that was it, and now I’m 15 kilos lighter – I was shocked how quickly I became accustomed to exercising every day, if I don’t get my walk in I notice my mood changes,” she said.
Stepping up 300 metres of vertical elevation, Ms Norris said she was speechless after walking past the mighty tower not long ago.
“A lot of people laugh at me and just say “are you crazy” because it is nuts, but I also signed up for the timing aspect – but it is my own race,” she explained.
The event allocates two and a half hours to complete the 88 flights and Ms Norris said she didn’t care how long it took her – but she’s getting to the top.
“Because it is about raising money for kids who struggle on a daily basis, I think if I have a physical challenge for an hour and a half its nothing compared to what these kids are going through on a daily basis.
“So it’s about giving a little back and also pushing me to achieve my own goal,” she said.
Stepping alongside 2500 other climbers, Ms Norris, a community engagement officer at Casey Race, said she was looking forward to seeing where the money raised went.
“My friend and I have already raised close to $1000 and Whitelion sends out reports showing you where and who the money is going to, which adds another level of satisfaction,” she said.
The climb will be held on Sunday 15 November at the highest observation deck in the Southern Hemisphere.
