Movember’s GODZone Team takes on the ultimate challenge

For many, hearing the words “non-stop expedition-style adventure race” would be the end of the conversation. But for the Movember GODZone Team, that’s what got the conversation going. Four legendary Kiwi Mo Bros and a Mo Sister are embarking on what is considered the largest, most technically challenging adventure race in the world. They’ll navigate a secret course, through mountains, rivers and coasts, day and night – testing not only their endurance and resilience, but their teamwork, with a little help from Richie McCaw along the way.

The four-person team will be kitted out in Movember-branded gear, thanks to Movember partner Hunters Element, a proud supporter for the past four years, and sponsors of the Movember Athletics Club for GODZone 2025.

Let’s meet the team

• Jonathan Brown: Proud partner, father of two, and amateur multisport athlete and battler from Cambridge.
• Simon Cochrane: Waikato-based father of 2 who’s been racing professionally for the past fifteen years.
• Travis Brown: Wanaka-based builder who lives for the outdoors and hunting, and was a guide in New Zealand and Canada for years.
• Kate Moore: Mother of 3 who balances family life with a passion for sports and the outdoors while running dairy farms across the Eastern Bay of Plenty.

We caught up with the team to learn more about why they Mo, their passion and how they’re feeling about the big race.

Why do you Mo? What connects you to this cause?

JB: In 2021, Travis and I lost our youngest brother, Stephen, to suicide. The three of us had planned to race GODZone together one day. So there’s a huge connection for us, to both the race and Movember, which we’ll use as fuel out there.

SC: Through JB and Trav, but I’ve also had a few other mates that have had to deal with some huge life events. Movember has done some awesome things to bring awareness to areas that men need more support for.

KM: Also through JB and Trav. I feel very fortunate to be a part of this journey, supporting a good cause to create awareness of men’s mental health.

What does men’s health mean to you?

JB: Men’s health to me is everything, the physical, mental and spiritual wellbeing. It’s about balance between those dimensions.

SC: Men’s health to me is both physical and mental. It’s being strong enough in both areas to enjoy life and be there to help others if needed.

TB: Men’s health is important to me. The male dominant industry of construction highlights the demand for help and awareness needed.

KM: Personally, it is very important. I have two sons, ten and 8, and want to be an active guide in their journey -- helping them to feel safe, supported and able to express their feelings, build confidence and navigate challenges.

What made you want to take on GODZone? One of the toughest adventure races in the world!?

JB: It has always been on the bucket list. It’s seen as the ultimate test of endurance, so it seems like the next logical step after the Coast to Coast / Ironman NZ. My brother and I have always been into backcountry hunting, so GODZone seems like a great mix of multisport disciplines in amongst some of the very best parts of New Zealand.

SC: GODZone has always been a huge goal, and the adventure and challenges that will come from the race -- I am sure will be remembered for a lifetime.

KM: After doing GODZone Chapter 9 in the North Island, I have wanted to give it another go as the experience is like no other.

How does your team look out for each other during the race?

JB: Checking in and being 100% honest about where we are at in terms of breaking point. We are only as fast as the slowest person, so no point in trying to be heroes. We work through everything together.

Now, for a fun one: Who’s the snack hoarder on the team?

JB: 100% Travis. A known sweet tooth and he’s rumoured to be carrying three flavours of Whittaker’s Chocolate at all times.

SC: I am definitely willing to carry a bit more weight - if it means we have plenty of extra snacks!

TB: Love a snack and I have a sweet tooth that would outperform most.

KM: Sounds like Trav, but I am happy to help eat some of those snacks!

If you could share one message about men’s health with others, what would it be?

JB: I’ve always been big on encouraging people to be prepared with your mental health before a crisis. I firmly believe anyone can struggle when faced with specific circumstances and just because you haven’t struggled to-date, doesn’t mean you are immune to it or never will. Just as we make plans for emergencies in other parts of life, having the tools and strategies in place, such as healthy coping mechanisms (fitness, diet, structure, routine etc), support network and self-awareness can help us respond more effectively during tough times. Mental health is not about being immune to stress or hardship, but about being equipped to navigate it. Preparation builds resilience, making it easier to manage emotional strain and recover more quickly when life becomes overwhelming.

TB: Reaching out for help is the biggest challenge for most and this needs to be encouraged to everyone.

KM: Seeking support is a sign of strength.

Support the Movember GODZone Team on their epic journey.