One Step Beyond

'Malcolm Law has dealt with loss and adversity, and has overcome it in an extraordinary way. One Step Beyond proves that while the human body may have its limitations, the human spirit is truly boundless.' — Dean Karnazes, author of Ultramarathon Man

Malcolm Law is an ordinary man who took on an extraordinary goal. Many said it was impossible – even Mal himself doubted whether he would succeed. But he had a secret weapon: he carried a photo of his late brother, Alan.

In November 2009, Mal set out to run New Zealand's seven mainland 'Great Walks' in seven days (the equivalent of nine mountain marathons), to ease an ancient pain, to honour Alan's memory and to raise funds for others battling leukaemia, the cruel illness that robbed him of his only brother.

What followed is an uplifting story of determination, courage, out-and-out hard yakka and, ultimately, triumph. We share the endorphin-fuelled ecstasy and the agony of doubts, fears, blood, sweat and tears that became Mal's life for nine months.

Vividly written and disarmingly candid, One Step Beyond is a story that will astound, enthral and inspire.

The Great Walks

Lake Waikaremoana, Te Urewera National Park – 46 km. Recommended walking time: 3–4 days.
Tongariro Northern Circuit, Central Plateau – 45 km. Recommended walking time: 3–4 days.
Abel Tasman Coast Track, Abel Tasman National Park – 53 km. Recommended walking time: 3–5 days.
Heaphy Track, Kahurangi National Park – 78.4 km. Recommended walking time: 4–6 days.
Routeburn Track, Mt Aspiring and Fiordland National Parks – 34 km. Recommended walking time: 2–4 days.
Milford Track, Fiordland – 54 km. Recommended walking time: 4 days.
Kepler Track, Fiordland – a 60 km. Recommended walking time: 3–4 days.