CHESTER Burt comes from a long line of funeral directors.
But he was “too out there” to follow in the family business – a tradition kept by his grandfather, father, and step brother – and instead became a firefighter.
“I am Chester Burt IV or mark 4 in the family chain. I escaped... in 1986 and went into the paid (fire) service,” he laughs. “Or else I would have ended up being a fourth generation funeral director!”
It was his dad’s idea that he give fire fighting a go.
The Thorndon-based firefighter says keeping fit is essential in his line of work which includes helping people whose roofs have been ripped off in heavy winds (like last week), administering CPR in emergencies, assisting people to break into their own cars with coat hangers, and the occasional fire.
Kayaking is Burt’s favourite way to keep fit. He got involved with the sport in the 80s, and has organised kayaking events around the country for the past seven years.
“It complements my job. When you are healthy you react quicker and think clearly. If you sit on the couch and eat potato chips all day your brain doesn’t work as well.”
Burt has helped organise one of Wellington’s longest running kayak race, The Welly Paddlers’ Motorway Race this Sunday. The 13km event attracts up to 80 participants who paddle in a range of kayaks and canoes from the Wellington Waterski Club to the Interislander Reclamation and back.
Motorists driving between Petone and Wellington will be able to see see the surf skis, outrigger canoes, sea kayaks, multisport kayaks and Olympic K1s (the type that silver medalist Ben Foughy used in Athens 2004) from the motorway.
Competitors from Taranaki, Manawatu, Hawke’s Bay, Wairarapa and Wellington will take part.
The race is part of the Welly Paddlers series that runs from September to April, and is geared toward the community rather than elite athletes. Burt highly recommends people get involved.
“It is great for meeting new people young and old and chewing the fat.”
The fact his firefighting skills complement kayaking is a bonus. If someone requires first aid, Burt is qualified to help. Although he says he would prefer to be looked after by the doctors and nurses in the team.
The Welly Paddlers’ Motorway Race, 10am, April 4, Wellington Waterski Club.