Mick Penny Skating

11 weeks since I completely ruptured my Achilles. I’m finally off the crutches and out of the boot. Time to rebuild!

So I’ve got a Bad News / Good News story to tell.

Someone—who shall remain nameless to limit embarrassment—decided to scratch the itch of reigniting his amateur football career after a 7-year hiatus. Second game in, the person in question completely ruptured his Achilles tendon and is now looking at a long recovery and rehab.

I’ll admit it—the do**us in this story is me. I’m once again in hospital, facing another surgery on my right leg. This time, it’s a little more serious.

Full disclosure: I’m really quite down about the whole situation. As we do as parents, I’ve tried to put on a brave face for my kids and partner, as they have their own challenges to navigate in day-to-day life. I also know I’m going to be a huge burden on them for the next few months while I’m in a boot and on crutches—and me moping around won’t make that any easier.

Being active is a huge part of maintaining my mental health. Walking, hiking, skating, inline hockey, working out, and playing with the kids outside are just a few of the activities that fill my cup on a daily basis. Coming to terms with the fact that I may not be able to do these things for a prolonged period has been tough.

Now that the bad news is out of the way… 👇 (continued in comments)

🚨 Roller Blading Lessons Now Available in Heathmont! 🚨

Looking to learn a new activity or maybe relive a favourite 80’s/90’s childhood hobby? Whether you're just starting out or wanting to roll back into roller blading, I’ve got you covered!

Kids: Learn the basics, build confidence, and develop those skating skills in a safe, fun environment.

Adults: Reconnect with a classic activity or try something completely new! Roller blading is a great full-body workout that’s just as fun as it is beneficial.

All lessons are conducted locally in Heathmont, outdoors —away from the busy roller rinks! Enjoy fresh air, space to learn, and a relaxed atmosphere.

I am a Heathmont local that has been skating for 30+ years. I currently play Inline Hockey and train in Long Distance Skating.

I hold a current Working with Children Check and have extensive experience coaching and educating both kids and adults through various sporting clubs and my work as a firefighter.

💥 Private and Group Lessons Available
💥 All skill levels and ages welcome
💥 Custom lessons to match your goals

DM me to get started or to ask any questions. Let’s hit the pavement together and make roller blading your next favourite activity! 😎

As of today, donations for The Great Skate 2024 are officially closed. I'm stoked to share that we've raised an incredible $22,000 for Mettle Women Inc.

Thank you once again to the numerous individuals and organisations that donated to this important cause. I am humbled by your support.

I'm having a little break for now but will soon be back into planning and training for The Great Skate #2.

Stay tuned for more updates!

Cheers,

Mick

I'm thrilled to share that through The Great Skate I have raised a total of $21,966 for Mettle Women! This incredible amount will be donated directly to supporting women affected by domestic and family violence.

I am stoked with this achievement and filled with so much gratitude. None of this would have been possible without the generous support of numerous individuals and businesses who rallied behind me and The Great Skate. A heartfelt thank you to:

Mettle Women Inc.
Proteus Leadership
Stable Base Personal Training and Pilates
Spring Osteo Clinic
Hillistic Coaching
Firefighters Charity Fund
UFU Vic
Lions Club of Heathmont
Milk & Wine Co
3rd Heathmont Scout Group
Fire Rescue Victoria
Balloons by Chris
bite me desserts & treats
Lipstick Glamour Pty Ltd
Evie & Co Studio
Skate Support Crew - Russell, Jake and Pete
Event Helpers - Jenny, Jane, Leanne and Lea
Skate Support Riders (Last 20km) - Dicky, Mick, Caitlin, Andy, Dane and Chris
Firefighters from Croydon & Nunawading Fire Stations
Karen White

I also want to express my huge appreciation to everyone who donated, purchased raffle tickets or attended The Great Skate event. From the very beginning, there has been an overwhelming outpouring of support and I am immensely proud of my local community, colleagues, friends and family for standing behind this vital cause.

Lastly, and most importantly I would not have been able to complete the 100km skate and organise the community event without the tireless efforts of my wife Hailey Penny. I am privileged to have an amazing team mate like Hailey by my side.

Thank you again and I look forward to what The Great Skate 2025 will bring!

Cheers,

Mick
Mick Penny Skating

Today is the day - It’s the GREAT SKATE! 🎉

Mick and a small supportive crew of family members and sponsors met at the Family Violence Memorial in the CBD very early this morning to cheer Mick on as he starts his 100km skate.

Stay tuned for more updates 🛼! GO MICK! 👏🏻

Tomorrow is the big day!

If you're attending the event, make sure you RSVP here: The Great Skate - Community Fundraising Event. All additional information and updates will be posted in the event page.

It's still not too late to donate. You can donate via my Gofundme page (direct link posted in comments).

We'll be posting lots of photos and videos as I'm skating tomorrow so keep an eye on my stories.

Cheers,
Mick

NEW SPONSOR UPDATE:

I know it's late in the piece but it is never too late to announce a new sponsor.

I would love to give a big shout out and thank you to Karen from Hillistic Coaching.

At Hillistic Coaching, Karen specialises in teaching endurance athletes how to fuel their sport effectively. Her 4 step method and personalised coaching approach will empower you to push beyond your limits, overcome hurdles, and unlock your true potential.

Karen has been instrumental in providing me with the knowledge and support to fuel my training for The Great Skate. Preparing for, and skating, 100km in one day would be a lot harder (than it already is) without the expertise of Hillistic Coaching in my corner.

Thanks again to Karen for all of her guidance. Please check out Hillistic Coaching at the links below.

Instagram - instagram.com/_karenhill_
Website - www.hillisticcoaching.com.au