Don't talk to Rob Matthews about pain. He has endured more than most of us can imagine. Matthews inherited Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) from his father Aubrey. His eye sight deteriorated in childhood and he was blind by the age of 20. For a time Rob struggled with self pity, but this was short lived and he soon found focus and inspiration in running, he’s not blind, it’s just that he can’t see.

Matthews has won 29 international gold medals including eight over 7 Paralympic Games. He has set 22 world records and was awarded with the M.B.E by Her Majesty the Queen for Services to Sport for the Disabled in 1987.

Rob Matthew’s has had more than his fair share of challenges, firstly losing his eye sight, then, hardest of all, facing losing his first wife to a blockage in the brain when she was aged only 38. Matthews’ has the view that its your attitude to life that dictates the outcome. He has cycled around Europe; driven a racing car at high speed at Brands Hatch; he skis and plays golf, football and cricket.

Matthews’ has lived an action packed life, running his way around the world, meeting royalty and heads of state before marrying Auckland interior designer, Sarah Kerr, and moving to New Zealand where, a year later, Sarah gave birth to Thomas Aubrey Matthews.

After 23 years running for Great Britain, Rob has recently represented New Zealand for the first time when he competed in the 2009 World Paralympic Triathlon Championships on the Gold Coast where he won the Silver medal. In October Rob will be competing in the New Zealand National road Cycling Championships in Nelson. His ultimate goal is to cycle for New Zealand at the Paralympic Games in London 2012.

Rob’s autobiography ‘Running Blind’, published in October, will inspire you to chase your dreams and never give up.

Mobile: 021 22 36111
Phone: 09 5229337