GOLDSTEIN PUTS ON FOGG LIGHTS FOR 80-DAY WHIRLWIND
THE self-described father of the Gold Coast Marathon will miss the event’s 40th running next month to realise a childhood dream.
John Goldstein will celebrate his 80th birthday reliving the words penned by author Jules Verne, who he revered as a youngster, and travel around the world in 80 days.
The marathon co-founder and Goldsteins Bakery stalwart will “chase the sunrise” like Verne’s Phileas Fogg. Mr Goldstein’s journey will span three continents and eight countries.
“The marathon, my baby, has grown up to be a giant for the Gold Coast, and teaches everyone to look after themselves for a purpose,” Mr Goldstein said.
“I think this journey will be another example, one for older people that there is a world out there that is still there to challenge you, and your outlook on things,” he said. “Travelling gives you that youthfulness.”
Mr Goldstein hoped to see the original planes built by the Wright brothers, fish for wild salmon, take in shows on Broadway and chart his own course on a boat in the Caribbean.
“I’m in panic about how fast it has happened. I had a dream and had a travel agent who was able to put that together,” Mr Goldstein said.
“I spent the weekend packing repacking the suitcase.”