Three of the Clubs members represented New Zealand recently at the World Masters Games held in Sydney. All did the Club proud, and there were lots of comments on the Club uniform, from many other competitors and the public. Congratulations to Eric on his two Bronze medals in the 20k road walk and the 5000m track walk. Also congratulations to Dave and Michelle for outstanding performances, well done all three!
Now what you didn't know!! They got Gold in the Synchronised Swimming!! Judged by no other than the 'Accompanying Persons' alias Frances and Verna (see attached photo).
After an anxious wait at New Plymouth Airport to see if we could get off the ground, we were on our way, and what a great time was had by all. Our designated 'Transport Minister' Michelle, did a fine job getting us around Sydney day and night, that is until she'd had too many wines! Walked around Darling Harbour after the closing ceremony looking for the Light Rail - never did find it!!
Michelle had some special people watching her 5000m track walk, namely daughter and son-in-law", and granddaughter calling out "Go Nana Chelle".
An Argentinean athlete lost his 'Dog Tag' on the Monorail, but we lost a husband! namely Eric!! And the Argentina guys found that most amusing. Verna had us all running to catch bus No. 40, only to discover that the '40' was the speed limit, but what had us in stitches was David's escapade to the swimming pool. Instead of taking the lift down 5 floors to the ground, he decided to go down the stairs... the fire escape stairs no less! where doors on each floor only opened INTO the stairwell! At last an exit!! out into the main street in Sydney, dressed in his bathers and towel, and having to walk down the street to the front door of our hotel. Some Mothers Do Have 'em! This same guy (Dave) was responsible for backing into the emergency bell in the lift, which had bells ringing in all directions.
A great time was had by all, found all the right places to eat, and the bottle stores! Everyone did the Club proud, and thanks to Denise for the loan of her TRWC uniform.
To the tune of Waltzing Matilda (some bits are closer than others)
Once three Naki athletes went to Australia (Once a jolly swagman…)
To take part in the World Masters Games
And they bussed and they trained and even rode a ferry or two
Regular commuters they all became.
Michelle, Dave and Eric, Michelle, Dave and Eric (Waltzing Matilda, waltzing matilda)
Verna and Francis all went to Sydney
And they ate and they drank and even walked a race or two
They all had fun in sunny Sydney.
For those of you trying to get the tune of Waltzing Matilda out of your heads try remembering the words to the theme song of the TV programme Gilligan’s Island.
