‘Tough’ men taking on the harbour

Mitchell on their journey.

“ e athletes can all laugh at me during the day when we’re exercising, and I can laugh at them when we’re on-stage at night talking to people,” says Mike.

Almost one year ago, Mike says he “could barely swim” the 25m length of his local pool. Now, the former comedian is regularly doing 3km, and hopes to put his new skills to the test during the journey.

“Swimming is the easiest sport in the world, if you’re tired, slow down, if you’re sore, you’re doing something wrong.”

He’s gone head-to-head with some of the most frightening and monstrous lads – yet former rugby league legend Richie Barnett is absolutely terri ed of an ocean swim.

But this is exactly why he’s taking the plunge. Richie will be joining mental health advocate Mike King along with All Black hallof-famer Ian Jones, former world triathlon champion Rick Wells and international swimmer Geo Everson for a trip of conquering their biggest fears.

Labelled the ‘Due Drop Hope Challenge’ their journey will begin at Cape Reinga’s lighthouse early-April – after postponing their February start-date due to weather. ey will then cycle, swim and run their way down the North Island to the Beehive to raise awareness about the struggles young people face with accessing counselling.

“It’s a trip from the lighthouse to the ‘shite’ house,” says Mike.

Barely swim

Mike, Richie and the team have tabled a Mount Maunganui for the Tauranga leg of the trip – members of the public can keep an eye out for them on social media and/or go watch in person.

e comedian and sporting legends will also be accompanied by polio virus survivor Karim Rostami, real estate guru Richard Hart and Auckland businessman David