Waimarinoites off to Wanganui Masters Games

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 14, Issue 672, 4 February 1997, Page 1

Waimarinoites off to Wanganui Masters Games

Over 50 locals from the Waimarino will be among the 7000 competitors from throughout New Zealand and overseas, competing in a wide range of sporting events at the Masters Games in Wanganui this week. Competition starts on Monday 3 February and continues through to Sunday 9 Feb, Although the main theme is fun and enjoyment, there will no doubt be a competitive streak amongst the entrants endeavouring to win medals, say organisers. Local members have the opportunity to wear a dress shirt, with a logo depicting the mountain and identifying this area, to create a team feeling. Individual sports such as kayaking, shooting, mountain biking, show jumping, polo crosse, netball, volleyball and athletics have attracted several locals. Three bowls teams take to the greens and they will find strong competition in their sections in what may be the most evenly-matched event at the games. Gold and silver medals four years ago in this event suggest talent

aplenty in the Waimarino teams. A line dancing squad face their first-ever competition, a sport in which teamwork standards are very high. The coach was heard to comment "I don't know how we'll go on the stage, but we'll be dancing on the tables in the pavilion!" Three people have entered the gentlemanly sport of snooker and 8-ball. It seems years of training at the Cossie Clubs have gone into their preparation, so their fitness should not be in doubt. Netball is represented by two local teams this year. Rumour has it that one team has managed two training sessions, and the other is still thinking about it. Their tactics may be to outwit the opponents off the court instead of on it. The Ruapehu Rascals Golden Oldies Rugby Team have swapped their boots for sandshoes and are competing at volleyball. They have been training regularly and their fancy footwork on the field will help them, but gossip has it — "don't watch this space for medals". Medal prospects? Who knows — see next week's Bulletin.