The Apt Wealth Partners team is celebrating the achievements of multi-talented athlete, Paralympian and Apt Wealth client, Ian Gainey, who recently completed his 30th Melbourne Marathon in a specially designed wheelchair.
While the 69-year-old says the 2021 marathon was his last, he has enjoyed an incredible sporting career that has taken him all over the world. From competing at the ’84 Paralympics in the USA, and completing 15 marathons in Japan, to smashing a world record for the 10,000 metres in London, Ian has excelled in his field.
“I’ve loved doing 42K marathons because they are a real challenge, a personal test of stamina, endurance, fitness and strength. And when you finish, the sense of achievement is just incredible, but at almost 70, it’s time to focus on other goals,” he says.
Ian first found a passion for marathons in the late 1970s, following a stint playing wheelchair basketball. “I was inspired by (Australian long-distance runner) Robert de Castella, and thought, why not give it a go? So I did!”
His first marathon really tested his mettle, with wind, rain and fatigue all adding to the challenge, but he says the sense of elation upon completion was worth it. “I quickly learnt that no marathon is easy. However, preparing mentally and physically can help you face up to the challenge,” he adds.
Alongside his running, the Wyndham local is passionate about helping the community, volunteering for Uniting VIC Tas and at his local community club. “When I retired, I knew I wanted to do something to keep giving back, and volunteering gave me a real sense of purpose,” he explains.
On the back of his sporting and community achievements, Ian was selected to carry the Olympic Torch ahead of the 2000 Sydney Games, the torch now taking pride of place in his living room. “I carried the torch via my wheelchair for a 200m stint from the Ballarat Town Hall. It was a great experience and one I will never forget.”
When speaking to Ian, it’s immediately apparent that he applies a positive outlook and can-do attitude to everything in his life. And this includes his finances. He first met Apt Wealth Partners twenty-one years ago when he attended a seminar and has trusted the team with his finances ever since. “Thanks to Apt Wealth Partners, I am extremely well-positioned with my financial goals and expectations,” he says.
Now that he has finished with marathons, Ian says he is looking forward to more travel, overseas if the COVID-19 situation permits. Throughout his life, Ian has found time to travel and counts Germany, Singapore and Egypt among his travel highlights. Next up, he’d like to visit Canada and Alaska.
Ian also says he will continue to focus on good health, eat well and stay active, and maintain his positive outlook on life, whatever comes next.
Apt Wealth Partners thanks Ian for putting his trust in us and looks forward to supporting him in this next phase of his retirement.
General Advice warning
The information provided in this blog does not constitute financial product advice. The information is of a general nature only and does not take into account your individual objectives, financial situation or needs. It should not be used, relied upon, or treated as a substitute for specific professional advice. Apt Wealth Partners (AFSL and ACL 436121 ABN 49 159 583 847) and Apt Wealth Home Loans (powered by Smartline ACL 385325) recommends that you obtain professional advice before making any decision in relation to your particular requirements or circumstances.
