For Scots College student Robert Hunt, crossing the finish line first at the 2026 Zespri AIMS Games was a very proud moment. But achieving his goal of breaking the record was the part he had really been working towards.

A Year 9 student, Robert recently won the boys’ adapted sports category in the cross-country event at Tauranga’s Waipuna Park, recording the fastest time in his category with a run of 2 minutes and 43.95 seconds.

With a rare genetic eye condition Familial exudative vitreoretinopathy (FEVR), competing at that level means lots of determination, training and support. Affected with severe low vision because of FEVR, it led to nystagmus and retinal detachment.

He began using a cane as a preschooler and reads braille. Recently, he received his national T12 athlete classification through Blind Sport New Zealand, allowing him to compete with a guide.

Sport has been part of Robert’s life from an early age, but cross-country has become a particular passion. He first took up the sport in Year 4 after discovering he was a strong runner at his school’s cross-country event. He now focuses on athletics and cross-country outside school and is a member of Olympic Harriers. He also recently discovered tandem cycling.

“I loved being at AIMS Games. The atmosphere was very friendly, and I really enjoyed the opportunity of meeting other para-athletes from around New Zealand and challenging myself,” Robert says.

Scots College has played an important role in helping Robert participate fully in school life, encouraging him to try new things and reach his potential. “Scots College has made me feel very included and they are really supportive of all my endeavours,” Robert says.

Halberg has also supported Robert and his family along the way, working with his school to help make sport more inclusive and providing funding for a teacher aide to accompany him on a school camp. Robert could take part in bush walks with his classmates. He has also received support for swimming lessons and attended several Halberg Games representing D-Sport Wellington.

Robert credits his coaches, training partners, family and guide runners for helping him reach his goals. Coaches John Cope and Craig Holden have been important parts of his journey, alongside his training squad and guide runners.

His dad has also been his guide for the past five years, helping build a strong bond and trust between them.

“I have loved having my dad guide me, as we have built up a lot of trust. I think my Dad has enjoyed running with me, too.” Robert says.

As he continues training five to six times a week, Robert is looking ahead as will soon represent Wellington at the Inter-Regional Cross Country Championships in Nelson, competing alongside runners from South Canterbury, Canterbury, Tasman and Wellington.