Thoughts from a Competitor at the South Island Venue

Mahe Drysdale's presence at the South Island venue of the 2007 New Zealand Shortcourse Championships was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. I think it's a huge testament to the character of someone who, despite wearing the mantle of two-time World Single Scull Champion, willingly and without financial reward gave up his time to come and "mix it with the troops". Mahe elected to row the 500m, with a view to breaking the New Zealand record of 1:18.6 (Gary Roberts, 2002). The attempt was a success, with a new record of 1:18.4 being created. Mahe remained at the Nelson venue, rowing for another 30 minutes or so at what appeared to be around a 1:35 pace!

It was a small band of ergers that congregated that day, but this did not impede some quality times being rowed.

Al Hallberg's (Waikanae) 100m time of 15.0 eclipsed the 15.3 record created by Rob Bristow eight years earlier; a remarkable feat indeed. Shirley Godkin (Timaru) missed out on bettering a number of her own records by the smallest of margins, but after teaming up with Val Wackrow she managed to secure a pairs record they had been pursuing for the last three years. The new time is 1:55.8.

Greg Carroll of Christchurch (formerly spending time in Australia), was a standout rower. His 14.3 100m, 44.3 300m and 1:20.0 500m are, in my opinion, world-class rows. At 126kg and 6' 5" Greg is a formidable force to be reckoned with. At the other end of the spectrum in terms of build was young Frazer Hallberg - a strapping 55kg of pure determination and enthusiasm. Frazer always gives his best and was rewarded with a personal best in a number of events ... Well done!

A highlight of the event for me was meeting Alan Winwood, a sprightly and cheery fellow who made for an enjoyable and relaxed race meet. Alan decided to show us how it was done, participating in the 100m, 300m and the 500m mixed pairs. An exuberant host indeed!

A fine day was had by all and it was with a sense of satisfaction and renewed camaraderie that I departed Nelson that evening for even warmer climes.

Check "Results" on the menu bar for the complete list of results from this event.

Graeme Hepworth