FEATURE

International Track & Field Trust Luncheon, Christchurch 4-Feb

By International Track Meet

Kiwi sporting legend Rob Waddell will be in Christchurch next month to speak at a charity event that will help the growth of track & field in New Zealand.

Waddell needs no introduction to most New Zealand sports fans – Olympic Gold Medalist as a rower, Team NZ America's Cup yachtsman, and Waikato rugby representative. In his latest role as the Chef de Mission for the New Zealand team travelling to this year's Rio Olympic Games, he brings a unique insight into the development and success pathway at the very top level.

Waddell said today, “I'm pleased to be able to take part in this event, it's great that we can create these opportunities for developing athletes to compete against top class opponents here in New Zealand as a stepping stone to the international level.”

Held in conjunction with upcoming events The Big Shot and Street Mile, the International Track & Field Trust's Charity Luncheon is a celebration of New Zealand's history in track & field, and an opportunity to create an enduring legacy for the sport of athletics.

The luncheon will be held at the Mashina Lounge on the 4th of February.  The always popular Memorabilia Auction will again be held in conjunction with the luncheon, and will feature items from sporting legends Sir Roger Bannister, Usain Bolt, Sir Richard Hadlee, and many more.

The International Track & Field Trust has previously brought to Christchurch guest speakers including Sarah Ulmer, Beatrice Faumuina and Valerie Young, along with events such as the International Track Meet (2009-10 at QEII Stadium, 2012-14 at Christ's College), The Big Shot (2015-16), and now the new Street Mile races featuring Nick Willis and Angie Petty against international competition.  Athletes featured have included Kiwi international medallists Nick Willis, Valerie Adams, Tom Walsh, Faumuina, Nikki Hamblin, Brent Newdick, and Jacko Gill, against international competitors including world champions Dani Samuels (Australia) and Ryan Whiting (USA).

Local heroes Walsh and Petty (nee Smit) first competed in these events as teenagers, and have gone on to international success.  The Trust has also been able to use funds generated from these to award travel grants to aspiring young athletes to help them follow in the footsteps of their heroes and achieve their dreams.  Trustee Paul Coughlan said today, “The development pathway has always been a key component of the events we have held. If we can help youngsters to bridge the gap from local to international level then the sport is in good shape for the future.”

Tickets to the luncheon are on sale now, either on a standalone basis or as part of sponsorship packages incorporating both events – all details are on the website thebigshot.co.nz, or by contacting Paul Coughlan at paul@internationaltrackmeet.co.nz