Introducing Finley Schumacher Sundberg ...

This November four year old Finley Schumacher Sundberg will ride 5km in New Zealand’s second largest outdoor event, the Wattyl Lake Taupo Cycle Challenge.  Athletic at heart, Finley broaches even the smallest of life's activities with a drive, stamina, and determination that is hard to keep up with. He gets joy in participating in all sports. He does not particularly have a competitive nature, but rather relishes in what he perceives as a common mission with others: to move fast, furious and continuous.

Born with Tetralogy of Fallot, Finley had a full repair when he was just three months old. Since then he has had follow-up treatment to fix stenosis (narrowing) of the left pulmonary artery, with two catheterisations over the last eight months.

“Finley has the same resilience and beautiful energy that we have seen in many children surviving illness,” says Mum Tamara. “A resilience and a drive that far supersedes any disability. Even the child who has had enough; doesn't want to have one more test; doesn't want to visit one more hospital; doesn't want to have one more operation – they look forward to what life offers them for themselves – not simply beyond their supposed weakness, but in spite of it and Finley is no different.”

Although he’s not quite an adult, Finley has decided that he is the toughest of athletes, a bull riding cowboy who sidelines as a baseball playing pirate when the occasion arises. He is therefore busy most days roping cattle, getting thrown off practice broncos, throwing and catching baseballs, taking out baddies and cleaning up his coral.

Says Tamara, “When Finley heard that he was going to get the opportunity to ride in the Wattyl Lake Taupo Cycle Challenge he was so excited. He ran to his bike to sit on the seat as he literally thought the race was starting at that moment. After a quick explanation about when the race would take place he decided instead to go for a practice ride.” Finley has been riding his bike whenever the winds of Wellington will allow and is 'getting into shape' for the big event.

“As a family we are supporting @Heart as we have been affected by a congenital heart condition and have seen first-hand the kind of work and support that Heart Children provides,” says Tamara.

If you are out and about on the day look for Finley; he'll be the wee tot on a flash red, yellow and black bike that sports the most important feature of all; training wheels. He would love to get your big wave of encouragement for him and all the other Heart Kids out there on the day!