$2 thongs: A Tongan marathon runner's companion http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-11-22/an-tonga-thongs-runner/5111488 Tonga's Andrew Fifita-Lamb has vowed to continue racing without fancy footwear, after making it to the end of a gruelling 160 kilometre marathon in a pair of cheap homemade sandals. The 48-year-old attracted plenty of media attention in New Zealand, after completing the country's Round the Mountain Relay in 31 hours. "The main reason I did the run was to inspire people," Fifita-Lamb told Radio Australia's Pacific Beat. "And to let people know you don't need to have flash gear to achieve your dream." http://www.abc.net.au/news/image/5111674-3x2-700x467.jpg http://www.abc.net.au/news/image/5111678-3x2-700x467.jpg