Bay of Plenty woman Katie Hodge recently completed the South Island’s 243km Coast to Coast multisport race in 16 hours and 18 minutes over two days. Hodge’s participation in the race celebrated 30 years since she received a life-saving liver transplant. She finished 15th in the open category for athletes aged 18 to 39 and was the 23rd out of 74 females to cross the finish line in the individual event. Despite having nerves leading up to the race, Hodge was determined to finish and accomplished her goal.
Throughout the race, Hodge experienced memorable moments, including capsizing while kayaking and learning new skills with fellow athletes. Her perseverance and determination paid off, as she successfully completed the race and celebrated with a swim at Brighton Beach in Christchurch. Additionally, Hodge raised over $6000 for Starship hospital as a way of thanking them for the care she received as a child. Hodge’s journey serves as an inspiration, considering that as a baby, she had to travel to Australia for the transplant and faced numerous health challenges throughout her childhood. Now, as an adult, she appreciates being able to live a healthy and fulfilling life.
