By Jessica Anstice
Pakenham’s Douglas Baxter will climb his way up, down and around the bays of the mighty ‘G in the 7600-stair challenge ‘Stadium Stomp’.
Stadium Stomp supports official charity partner the Leukaemia Foundation and participants are encouraged to make every step count and fundraise.
This will be Mr Baxter’s first time participating in the event which will be held on Sunday 30 June.
“I have looked at it the last few years but I’ve never actually worked up enough courage early enough to sign up,” he said.
“I have recently started to make my health a priority as I have an autistic daughter who needs a lot of assistance and I found it harder to keep up as she has grown.”
To improve his health, Mr Baxter has joined a gym in Pakenham and gained some helpful advice from a dietitian.
“The kickboxing has been perfect for my situation. I can do a quick and full-on 30 minute circuit and get back home,” he added.
“I’ve also started to eat better which has done a great job in building up my strength and fitness.”
After taking part in Spartan Races, Mr Baxter thought ‘why not give this a go, what’s the worst that could happen?’.
“I go to the MCG a bit so what better challenge than to run and/or walk all the steps,” he said.
“I am not expecting to break land speed records as I am early in my running journey. I just want to finish.
“I’m looking forward to the end because there is no better feeling than beating a challenge, but then my mind often goes to the next challenge and what that might be.”
Mr Baxter is a strong believer in growth mindset.
“You don’t have to be the best but you should always strive to learn and/or get better at things you want,” he said.
“My trainers at the gym, my colleagues at Beaconhills College and of course my family are my big supporters.
“They will ensure I stay on track even when I might not want to.”
