Offshore racing : Maritimo on track for Dubai

Scheduled for December 6 and December 13, the two Class I events comprise rounds of the World and Middle East Class 1 championships.

The innovative Bill Barry-Cotter-designed catamaran which will hopefully attract more competitors to Class 1 offshore racing, has arrived in Dubai in readiness for two Middle East events in early December.

Maritimo crew chief, Peter ‘Muddy’ McGrath left Australia last Friday to oversee final preparations for the boat and its dual 790hp naturally aspirated engines. Driver Tom Barry-Cotter flies out this week and will meet up with throttleman Pal Virik Nilsen in Dubai. Engine builder Kirk Davies and ‘spannerman’ Dave Grantley will accompany Barry-Cotter to Dubai.

Bill Barry-Cotter was the driving force behind significant rule changes to the offshore racing scene, which has led to the Dubai catamaran receiving the ‘all clear’ to take part in Class 1 by the sport’s governing body, the Union Internationale Motonautique (UIM).

To campaign one of these new catamarans will cost about $500,000 as against more than $1.2 million for the former boats with Lamborghini and similar engines.

The naturally-aspirated 790hp engines are widey used in European and American racing and it is hoped their adoption will result in larger fields worldwide.

Maritimo purchased 21 of the engines and will market the Coomera, Gold Coast-built catamarans with or without engines. Prospective racers may also purchase complete sets of plans and diagrams to build their own boats and engines to the accepted specifications.

Golf : Sergio Drives To Africa

WORLD number two Sergio Garcia has hit one of the most amazing tee shots of his life.

The Spanish star hit a driver to the Par 3 Extreme 19th at the Legend Golf & Safari Resort – off the top of a mountain to a green the shape of Africa 400 metres below.

After striking six balls into infinity, Sergio said simply this was the best.

He said: “This is truly unique. I have never seen a hole like this and it’s a great challenge. I’m so glad I made par with one of my balls and my competition ball just missed the green and I managed to make bogey. What a hole…what a view…what a resort.”

Accessible only by helicopter, the hole is a breathtaking experience and a challenge that none should refuse. With the tee placed at the top of the majestic Hanglip Mountain, the Extreme 19th is the most dramatic Par 3 in the world…as well as the longest at 361m and the highest at 400m.

Sergio took the helicopter to the Extreme 19th as part of his trip to inspect the hole he has designed on the Signature Course at the stunning resort at the Big 5 Entabeni Safari Conservancy in South Africa.

It’s one of its 18 signature holes, each designed by a different world class golfer, with the list of signatures who have been honoured to work on the project reading like a who’s who of world golf....Trevor Immelman, reigning US Masters Champion; Padraig Harrington, reigning British Open and US PGA champion; Bernard Langer, Colin Montgomerie, Justin Rose, Vijay Singh, K J Choi, Retief Goosen and of course Sergio Garcia to name but a few.

And after inspecting his par 4, 16th, Sergio said he was delighted with the almost finished product.

He said: “It’s a great honour to be chosen as one of the 18 signature designers. And I think my hole does bring out the spirit of my game. It’s all about risk and reward and being given the chance to take a great shot and making it. I can’t believe how good this project is and I’m sure golfers from across the world will enjoy this unique challenge.”

The unique 18 signature golf course is due to open for play in March 2009 but is already one of the most talked about courses in Africa. But the challenge of the Extreme 19th is one you can take now. While the Entabeni Safari Conservancy is also inspiring visitors – including all 112 Miss World contestants who recently spent six days there.

For more information about Legend Golf & Safari Resort please go to www.legendgolfsafari.com

Golf : Colin Edwards Appointed England Captain

Colin Edwards, an international for more than a decade, has been appointed England Captain and will take up his duties following the EGU’s Annual Meeting on 18th February.

Edwards, 45, from Bath (photo courtesy of Tom Ward), will be at the helm for a year and succeeds Yorkshire-based Jonathan Plaxton, who has been in charge since 2007.

“This is a big honour for me and I’m delighted,” said Edwards. “It is great to play for your country but to be captain is something I’ve always wanted to do and I’m really looking forward to it.”

Edwards was a regular in the England side from 1991 to 2003 during which time he played 86 matches, winning 47. He also represented Europe in the Bonallack Trophy and was a Walker Cup reserve in 1999. He also won several key titles including the 1995 Brabazon Trophy at Hillside, finishing tied with Mark Foster, the West of England Stroke Play and the Berkshire Trophy. He also reached the Amateur Championship semi-finals in 1997 and the quarter finals two years later.

At home in Somerset he has won the county title on 12 occasions, the most recent being last year, while his record for Somerset is quite remarkable, stretching back almost 30 years. He made his debut in 1979 at the age of 16 and has clocked up around 150 appearances.

In recent years his playing appearances have been restricted by business and family commitments as well as a back injury sustained in a road accident. However, he returned to the national scene in 2007 to win the English Mid Amateur Championship for the Logan Trophy at Minchinhampton.

“My back has not been good for the last 18 months so I haven’t played much this year,” he says. “I’ve been giving it a bit of a rest but I intend to play a bit more next year. That way you get a better indication how players are performing. But I will also go to other key events to keep a close eye on what is happening.

“Next year is a massive year on the international scene with the European Team Championships at Conwy in Wales, the Home Internationals at Hillside, and the Walker Cup. We must try to get as many English players as possible into the Walker Cup team, which is one reason, as well as the challenge, that persuaded me to take on the task.”

Colin, who works as a manager for an IT company in Bristol, is married to Julia and they have two sons, Matthew (11) and Tim (9). He is the second West Countryman to lead England in the past decade. Malcolm Lewis was in charge from 1998 - 2001.

Edwards first time in the role is expected to be the away international with Spain at La Reserva near Sotogrande in March.

Events : British Boxers Join Wembley Roll Call Of Champions

Four of Britain’s current and former boxing champions will be warming up the Wembley crowd with a series of races in race-specification Fiat 500s before the stars of world motorsport take to the track at the Race of Champions on Sunday, 14 December.

Frank Bruno, David Haye, Amir Khan and Enzo Maccarinelli have all signed up to race head-to-head in the inaugural ‘ROC Celebrity Race’ over the purpose-built 1km parallel track in Abarth 500 Assetto Corse cars to see who’s Britain’s fastest boxer.

Commonwealth Lightweight Champion, Amir Khan, who fights Oisin Fagan on Saturday at the ExCeL Arena, goes into the contest with a significant advantage over his heavyweight and cruiserweight opponents in the diminutive 930kg, 200bhp race cars, but David Haye, for one is planning stiff opposition.

“I hate losing,” offers the former World Cruiserweight Champion, “if Amir thinks he’s going to get it all his own way, he’d better watch out. He will have a weight advantage but when I’m one on one I will do everything I can to finish first. I’m really looking forward to it.”

Another disparity between the competitors is age, but 47-year-old Bruno is hoping his experience will prove decisive in saving those vital fractions of a second.

“I’m looking forward to giving the young guns a run for their money. Wembley Stadium is where I beat Oliver McCall to become World Heavyweight Champion in 1995 so the place is very special to me. Both Amir and Enzo will be coming there off the back of fights this weekend, whereas I’ll be fresh as a daisy. Bring it on!”

The boxers will make up one half of The ROC Celebrity Race. Four non-boxing celebrities, including James Martin, Shayne Ward and Arsenal’s Bacary Sagna will compete in a parallel knock-out challenge, with the winner of each side of the draw meeting in a grand final.

The ROC Celebrity Race will take place at 1300 before the much-anticipated Chris Hoy and Lewis Hamilton Man v Machine challenge.
Tickets for The Race of Champions are on sale now by calling 0844 412 1743, or online at www.raceofchampions.com. Adult prices start at £18 and child tickets at £9.

Cricket : ICC Boss Lays Out His Vision For Global Cricket Academy

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

The Chief Executive of the International Cricket Council (ICC), Haroon Lorgat, has spoken of his vision for the ICC Global Cricket Academy, saying it will help to ‘unite the international cricket community’.
The ICC Global Cricket Academy – based at Dubai Sports City – will be an important focal point for international excellence and education when it opens next year.

The academy will provide a unique environment for coaching, game education and training in outstanding facilities with some of the games best coaches.

“A goal of the ICC Global Cricket Academy should be to unite the international cricket community and share information from around the world,” said Lorgat. “By putting these principles into the academy we can raise the bar all the time.”

As well as providing international standard training facilities, the ICC Global Cricket Academy will also afford the opportunity to players, coaches, umpires, curators and administrators from across the ICC’s 104 Member Countries to benefit from programs and courses; creating a vibrant and integrated cricket community.

Situated within the academies campus at Dubai Sports City, the facility is in walking distance of some of the world’s most successful sporting institutions and coaching philosophies including the Manchester United Soccer School, and the rugby, swimming and WorldHockey academies.
“The package at Dubai Sports City is fantastic. Other sports can learn a lot from cricket and vise-versa. There is real value in an integrated sports city which will enhance the game,” added Lorgat.

The ICC Global Cricket Academy will open next year initially focusing on local game development at a grassroots level in addition to offering coaching programs and hosting local leagues. The ICC will also move into its new headquarters at Dubai Sports City in the early part of 2009.
“The ICC Global Cricket Academy will become the most important centre of excellence for aspiring and developing cricketers in the world,” said Khalid Al Zarooni, President, Dubai Sports City. “We are developing a vision for the future of sport with the best coaches, facilities and technology all in one place.”

The ICC Global Cricket Academy has two international standard ovals with pitches constructed from clay imported from Pakistan and Australia to replicate playing conditions around the world.

Players and coaches will also be able to take advantage of the advanced technology designed to help diagnose and rectify problems with batting and bowling styles. The ICC Global Cricket Academy’s indoor facility will house seven indoor practice nets, a fielding area, a video analysis area, a recovery room, a gymnasium and a viewing area.

Tennis : KING-TURNER & HOLLAND'S TAKE OUT FUJI XEROX NZMT 2

Second seed Dianne Hollands stopped the giant killing run of Tanya Samodelok in the women's final today (Friday), scoring a convincing 6-1 6-1 win at the Fuji Xerox NZMT 2 at Scarbro Tennis Centre, Auckland. Samodelok had earlier won a marathon semi-final over third seed Tracey O'Connor 6-3 3-6 6-2 to go with her upset win over the top seed yesterday. In the final she appeared tired and Hollands took full advantage forcing errors and scoring winners with sweetly hit forehands.

The men's singles final featured the top two seeds Dan King-Turner and Adam Thompson. Top seed King-Turner raced through the first set conceding only one game. He then got an early break in the second set before Thompson came to life and broke back to level at 3 all in the windy conditions. King Turner struck again immediately and shortly after served out the set 6-4 to take the match and title.

Earlier Thompson had a tough semi-final win over Robbie Cheyne who was competitive throughout the two and a half hour match. Cheyne saved seven match points when serving in the 12th game of the second set but was unable to hold off Thompson in the tiebreaker losing it 7-5 after losing the first set 8-6 in a tiebreaker.

King-Turner's semi-final was much more straight forward as he beat Wellington's Finn Tearney 6-3 6-4.

Results
Men's Semi-finals: (2) Adam Thompson d. (5) Robert Cheyne 7-6(6);7-6(5) ; (1) Daniel King-Turner d. (3) Finn Tearney 6-3;6-4; Men's Final (1) Daniel King-Turner d. (2) Adam Thompson 6-1;6-4
Women's Semi-finals: (5) Tanya Samodelok d. (3) Tracey O'Connor 6-3;3-6;6-2; (2) Dianne Hollands d. (4) Abbey Guthrie 6-2;6-1; Men's Final (2) Dianne Hollands d. (5) Tanya Samodelok 6-1;6-1

league : Colin Love re-elected

The General Committee of the NSW Rugby League has today re-elected Colin Love AM as Chairman for the 2009 season. This will be Mr Love’s 11th year in the position. Several speakers from the General Committee of the NSW Rugby League congratulated the Board on its Centenary year and were high in their praise for the just completed Rugby League World Cup. Three new life members of the NSW Rugby League were elected this evening. South Sydney legend’s Michael Cleary AO and George Piggins joined long time NSWRL Vice President Brian Kurtz in this exclusive club.

NSWRL General Manager Geoff Carr has expressed his pleasure in the General Committee’s selections. “The three new Life Members have all made an outstanding contribution to Rugby League and in particular the NSW Rugby League. It is great to see this honour bestowed on those who thoroughly deserve it,” Carr said.

Rugby : NZRU pays tribute to the man “who gave New Zealand rugby” – Charles John Monro

The New Zealand Rugby Union has today paid tribute to the man who brought rugby to New Zealand, Charles John Monro, as it hosted a launch of the first definitive biography published on his life.

“Monro – the Life and Times of the Man Who Gave New Zealand Rugby,” by Clive Akers, was yesterday launched in Palmerston North, Monro’s home town for 46 years, and was today launched at the NZRU offices in Wellington at a function attended by some of Monro’s descendants, Akers and NZRU President Andy Leslie who contributed the foreword to the book. Akers spent three years researching the book with the majority of content being provided by Monro descendants on family history dating as far back as the 1830s. Countless hours were spent deciphering old letters and pocket diaries.
Monro was recognised as the man who brought the game of rugby to New Zealand having observed and played the game while studying at Christ’s College, Finchley, in London. On his return to New Zealand he organised the first game of rugby in May 1870 between the Nelson Football Club and Nelson College and later organised the first inter-district game of rugby when a group from Nelson Football Club played a Wellington selection at Petone in September that year. In his foreword, Andy Leslie said “this book gives us an appreciation of the introduction of rugby to New Zealand and the pioneers in Nelson who first trialled and approved of the rules Charles Monro advocated.”

A lifelong stalwart of the Petone Rugby Club, Leslie particularly identified with Monro’s efforts to stage the first inter-district game which was played at Petone. Leslie wrote: “Having travelled the 15 kilometres from Petone into Wellington city countless times during my life, I am aware only a person on a very determined mission would walk the distance both ways in one day. In 1870 Monro, having failed to find any suitable field for rugby in Wellington, could have chosen to cancel the proposed clash between representatives of Nelson and Wellington. “That he should make the long and lonely walk out to the Hutt in search of a paddock indicates his belief that the rugby game was the best form of football. The historic game played at Petone was the forerunner of inter-provincial rugby. He selected and coached the Wellington novices, played for the more knowledgeable Nelson team, and refereed the game!” Leslie said he believed the book would add to the texture and depth of New Zealand’s rugby history. "I'm certain this biography of Charles Monro will provide a greater understanding of the origins of rugby in New Zealand and an insight into the interesting life of a pioneer sportsman," Leslie said.

Tennis : Marcel Vos appointed Fed Cup Captain by Tennis New Zealand

Marcel Vos has been appointed Fed Cup Captain by Tennis New Zealand.

An excellent professional coach and former tour player, Vos brings 25 years of international experience to the role. He has produced national champions in three different continents. For the past 18 years he has travelled, coached and managed WTA, ATP and ITF Tour players, plus world-ranked juniors to all major Grand Slam events. He has coached at all levels of tennis, in different cultures around the world.

Most recently, Vos has been a travelling coach (along with Michiel Schapers) of New Zealand’s top player Marina Erakovic, who is currently ranked 60 in the world in singles, and 43 in doubles. Erakovic was the number one player for the New Zealand Fed Cup team in 2008. Vos has also travelled with and/or coached on the road other Kiwi Fed Cup players Ellen Barry and Sacha Jones. Marcel Vos says, “I am very excited to captain our young Fed Cup team in their goal to qualify for the World Group 2 play-offs in 2009. Having had successful past experiences with all Fed Cup 2008 members, most notably Marina Erakovic, I am looking forward to assembling the 2009 Fed Cup team, bring them together and see them mature further during this campaign.”

Tennis New Zealand CEO Steve Walker says “We are really pleased to have someone of Marcel’s stature and experience in the game to take on the leadership of our Fed Cup team. New Zealand women’s tennis is at the brink of an exciting new phase, and with Marcel’s help, we look forward to ever greater success for our Fed Cup players.

"With an exciting summer of tennis approaching it is great news that Marcel Voss will be joining the Peak Performance team at Tennis New Zealand as Fed Cup captain in 2009, “ says Peter Lumsden, Peak Performance Manager – Women for Tennis New Zealand. “Marcel has had a long history of success working with the very best New Zealand players most recently of course helping, with Michiel Schapers, guide the career of our number one player Marina Erakovic to a career high ranking. I am looking forward to Marcel and I working together over the summer in New Zealand to help shape and prepare the team for our first Fed Cup tie in Perth in the first week of February 2009. Marcel’s experience, enthusiasm and track record of success working with the country’s best female athletes will give our team the best chance of advancing in the Fed Cup events in 2009,” Lumsden says.

The Fed Cup is the world’s premier team competition in women's tennis, launched in 1963 to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the International Tennis Federation.

More than 100 nations now compete annually for the Fed Cup.

Cricket : England Test squad to fly to Abu Dhabi today...

After spending the last 72 hours consulting security advisers and Government agencies at the highest level, the England and Wales Cricket Board has determined that England will leave for Abu Dhabi today (Thursday) to resume their two Test tour of India. Yesterday Hugh Morris, Managing Director England Cricket, outlined to the England players that the tour would go ahead subject to security recommendations being implemented. The England test squad will practice in Abu Dhabi along with nine members of the England Performance Squad and will fly on to India early next week for the two Test matches in Chennai and Mohali if the security recommendations have been implemented. Ryan Sidebottom, who was named in England’s original 15 man tour party, has been ruled out of the series with a side injury. Stuart Broad will miss the first Test having picked up a hamstring strain in Cuttack during the fifth one day international. He will remain in England for intensive physiotherapy and then fly out to Chennai where his fitness will be reviewed ahead of the second Test.

Awards : 2008 Steinlager Rugby Awards winners announced

The winners for this year’s Steinlager Rugby Awards, New Zealand’s premier rugby awards, have been announced with Andrew Hore heading off strong challenges from Richie McCaw and Piri Weepu to take out the prestigious Kelvin R. Tremain Memorial Player of the Year. Hore’s disappointment at coming home early from the All Blacks tour may have been tempered by him also winning the Rebel Sport Super 14 Player of the Year, reflecting a magnificent year for the Hurricanes hooker.

Other All Blacks to pick up Awards were Southland captain Jamie Mackintosh, who won the Air New Zealand Cup Player of the Year, and Piri Weepu, who won the Tom French Memorial Maori Player of the Year Award. The All Blacks took out the Team of the Year for a hugely successful year in which they won the Iveco Series, retained the Bledisloe Cup while winning the Philips Tri-Nations, beat the Wallabies in Hong Kong and European champions Munster in Ireland, and completed a Grand Slam tour of the UK.

Coach of the Year was awarded to All Blacks coach Graham Henry for masterminding this outstanding series of results which saw the team win 14 out of the 16 matches played this year. New Zealand Sevens Captain DJ Forbes can add the Richard Crawshaw Memorial Sevens Player of the Year to the IRB Sevens Player of the Year Award he won last month.

In other Awards, a trio of wingers were among the winners on the night. Auckland speedster Victoria Grant was awarded the NZRU Women’s Player of the Year, Wanganui youngster Cameron Crowley the AA Rewards Heartland Championship Player of the Year and Hawke’s Bay’s rising star Zac Guildford the NZRU Age Grade Player of the Year. The Steinlager Salver, a special presentation to a person who has made an outstanding contribution to New Zealand rugby, was presented to former All Blacks Captain Tane Norton at the Awards function.

Prior to serving as President to both the Canterbury and New Zealand Rugby Unions Norton had a distinguished playing career, representing Mid-Canterbury, Canterbury and New Zealand Maori before making his All Blacks debut in 1971. He captained the All Blacks nine times in his sixty one games for them, which included 27 tests (four as Captain). Ken Swain won the New Zealand Rugby Volunteer of the Year for his loyal dedication and service to the Horowhenua Kapiti Rugby Union.

The judges for the 2008 Steinlager Rugby Awards were former All Blacks captain and former NZRU President John Graham, NZRU Board member and former New Zealand Maori captain Paul Quinn, SKY Sport rugby commentator Grant Nisbett and NZRU General Manager Professional Rugby Neil Sorensen.

The full list of winners at the 2008 Steinlager Rugby Awards is as follows:
NZRU Age Grade Player of the Year - Zac Guildford (New Zealand Under-20, Hurricanes, Hawke’s Bay)
Richard Crawshaw Memorial Sevens Player of the Year - DJ Forbes (Counties Manukau)
NZRU Referee of the Year - Bryce Lawrence (Bay of Plenty)
Women’s Player of the Year - Victoria Grant (nee Blackledge) (Auckland)
New Zealand Rugby Volunteer of the Year - Ken Swain (Horowhenua Kapiti)
Rebel Sport Super 14 Player of the Year - Andrew Hore (Hurricanes)
Tom French Memorial Maori Player of the Year - Piri Weepu (Wellington)
AA Rewards Heartland Championship Player of the Year - Cameron Crowley (Wanganui)
Air New Zealand Cup Player of the Year - Jamie Mackintosh (Southland)
adidas Team of the Year - All Blacks
New Zealand Rugby Coach of the Year - Graham Henry (All Blacks)
Steinlager Salver for an Outstanding Contribution to New Zealand Rugby - Tane Norton
Kelvin R. Tremain Memorial Player of the Year - Andrew Hore

Rugby : The match saw a series of long rallies and very close games with Samodelok holding her nerve as Moriarty fought back at the end of the second

NZRU to recognise six decades of Test All Blacks

Six of New Zealand’s most decorated All Blacks were tonight awarded long-overdue Test caps in recognition of their first Test match and to symbolically recognise more than 400 former players who will now be presented their caps in a series of events to be held over the next two years. The six players represented the six decades of All Blacks who did not receive their Test caps when the tradition lapsed in the decades following the Second World War. Capping was re-introduced by the New Zealand Rugby Union in 1997. The former players honoured this evening were: Fred Allen (representing the 1940s); Sir Wilson Whineray (1950s); Sir Brian Lochore (1960s); Andy Dalton (1970s); Wayne “Buck” Shelford (1980s); and Olo Brown (1990s).

New Zealand Rugby Union Chairman Jock Hobbs announced the initiative to retrospectively honour the former Test players at the Steinlager Rugby Awards held at Auckland’s Langham Hotel this evening. Mr Hobbs said the sport of rugby union had, from its early days, adopted the tradition of recognising players at the top level through the awarding of an actual cap. “In our All Blacks history, a player’s first appearance in a Test match has traditionally been rewarded with a Test cap. However, along with international rugby itself, the capping tradition was interrupted by the Second World War and was not re-introduced until June 1997, leaving many of our former All Blacks without the Test caps they had worked so hard to attain. The NZRU is delighted to announce we are undertaking a capping project which will see these players honoured with their All Blacks Test cap at Ceremonies throughout the country by the end of 2011.”

The first of the events will be staged across the main centres during the All Blacks Test season starting in June 2009. Former players will be capped starting with those players from the 1940s. The NZRU will continue to stage events in 2010 and, if necessary, 2011, to honour all of those players yet to receive their first Test cap. “Sadly, a number of our former players are no longer with us,” said Jock Hobbs. “We will be inviting their families to attend the events to receive the caps on behalf of those players.” Of the 414 caps to be awarded, there are thought to be 325 living former All Blacks with 89 having passed away in the years since their Test debuts.

Legends of the game
The six players honoured at tonight’s ceremony and their Test cap history were:

1940s - Fred Allen - All Black Number: 449
Test debut: Saturday, 14 September 1946 v Australia at Dunedin

1950s - Sir Wilson Whineray - All Black Number: 585
Test debut: Saturday, 25 May 1957 v Australia at Sydney

1960s - Sir Brian Lochore - All Black Number: 637
Test debut: Saturday, 4 January 1964 - v England at London

1970s - Andy Dalton - All Black Number: 777
Test debut: Saturday, 19 November 1977 - v France at Paris

1980s - Wayne ‘Buck’ Shelford - All Black Number: 860
Test debut: Saturday, 8 November 1986 - v France at Toulouse

1990s - Olo Brown - All Black Number: 910
Test debut: Saturday, 6 June 1992 - v Ireland at Wellington

Tennis : Upsets at New Zealand Money Tournament

Kate Parker (Left) and Olivia Isbey started a day of upsets when they beat seeded players Sarah McDermott and Kataraina Hunia respectively in the third round of the Fuji Xerox NZMT 2 at Scarbro Tennis Centre, in Auckland today.

The event is the second in the Configure Express New Zealand Money Tournament Circuit.

Anton Bettink (middle, North Harbour) continued the trend when he tipped out seventh seed Jackson Bodle in the mens third round, taking a thrilling match 6-3 6-7(2) 6-3.

The biggest upset came in the women's quarter-finals when Auckland based junior Tanya Samodelok (right) beat top seed, Australian Julia Moriarty 6-2 6-4.

The match saw a series of long rallies and very close games with Samodelok holding her nerve as Moriarty fought back at the end of the second set.

The other women's quarter-finals were all straightforward with Dianne Hollands, Tracey O'Connor and Abbey Guthrie all winning comfortably.

In the men's singles semifinals the top two seeds, NZ Davis Cup team members Dan King-Turner and Adam Thompson scored convincing wins.

King-Turner ended the excellent run of Anton Bettink 6-2 6-1 displaying too much power and accuracy while Thompson beat Canterbury's James Meredith 6-4 6-3.

The women's semi-finals will be at 10am Friday followed by the men's semis at noon. The women’s final will be at 3pm with the men’s following at 4pm.

Cricket : Teams flock to Hong Kong for Cricket Festival !

Cricket teams from Japan, Australia, Macau, China, the Philippines and Korea fly into Hong Kong this week to compete against local opponents in the 7th Ichor International Hong Kong Cricket Festival being held at Mission Road Cricket Ground from 5-7th December.

Seventeen teams in total, including the defending champions from Shanghai, will compete for honours in this award winning annual tournament designed to celebrate the diversity of the sport with it's motto of 'friendship through cricket.'

"There's hot competition on the field of course, but friendship and camaraderie at the Festival are as important as winning," said Tournament Director Brad Tarr of Lamma Cricket Club.

"For seven years we've run our Festival by this mantra of 'friendship through cricket' and the strong support from cricketers who travel to enjoy Hong Kong from all around the world is evidence of the popularity of the message," Mr Tarr continued.

The action gets underway at Mission Road Cricket Ground (Tin Kwong Road) at 9am on Friday morning and concludes with a trophy ceremony on Sunday evening.

Spectators are very welcome and entry is free.

In addition to the cricket action there are a range of social activities for participants to enjoy including a Players Party and a Gala Dinner.

The Ichor International Hong Kong Cricket Festival supports the Make A Wish children's charity activities in Hong Kong.

The Festival won major awards from the International Cricket Council and Asian Cricket Council in 2005 for contributing to the development of cricket.

For further information about the Ichor International Hong Kong Cricket Festival 2008 and directions to the ground
see the tournament website www.hkcricketfestival.com or call 9422 5907.

The Hong Kong Cricket Festival is organised by Lamma Cricket Club and received an International Cricket Council Award for contributing to the development of cricket in 2005. The tournament is a part of the Asian Cricket Sixes Tour circuit of events which also includes Phuket, Philippines, Australia, Shanghai and Bangkok.


An Asian Cricket Sixes Tour event
www.cricketsixes.com

Cricket : Full-strength England head to Abu Dhabi

By CricInfo

England will fly to Abu Dhabi on Thursday with a view to resuming their tour of India if they receive the requisite security clearance. A full-strength squad, minus the injured Ryan Sidebottom, has been named despite concerns that some players would opt out, and they will train in the Middle East before heading to Chennai early next week ahead of the first Test on December 11.

However, the onward trip from Abu Dhabi is still subject to Reg Dickason's assessment of the security plans in India. Dickason inspected the venue of the first Test in Chennai on Wednesday and said that his security concerns have been addressed. He is scheduled to visit Mohali, the venue of the second Test, later. The security consultant will, meanwhile, hold meetings in India with Hugh Morris, the managing director of England cricket, and Sean Morris, the chief executive of England's Professional Cricketers' Association (PCA).

Hugh Morris and Sean Morris will then fly to Abu Dhabi to confirm to the ECB and the players that the added security recommendations are in place for the tour to begin.

All the players have received reports from the ECB security team and also the recommendations that Dickason has insisted the BCCI in India put in place, which include a heavy police and commando presence around the team

"The only consideration in all our discussions has been the safety and security of the team and support staff," said Hugh Morris. "We have been delighted by the input of the PCA and also the willingness of the BCCI to act upon our recommendations regarding security.

"While we have sought to reassure players that their safety is paramount we have not pressurised any player into making the trip against their will. Those who leave for Abu Dhabi are all anticipating travelling to India if both Sean and I are happy that Reg Dickason's security plans have been activated. The board and players will be kept fully informed."

There had been speculation that some players would opt out even if the tour went ahead, but Hugh Morris said that a few days at home had allowed them to clear their minds. "The players have been fantastic over the last few days," he told Sky Sports. "The reason we came back from India in the first place was to take some time to reflect. We have all been able to do that."

Sean Morris added: "The PCA and ECB have worked extremely closely on this issue and the players have been fully supportive throughout. We will access the highest calibre of security advice on a regular basis so that we can provide the players with the latest accurate information."

"I have been assured by the ECB that they would never compromise the players' safety and security. Hugh and I are travelling to India this weekend to confirm for the players that the security is of the high standard that the ECB and PCA demand."

Sidebottom, who was named in England's original 15-man tour party, has been ruled out of the series with a side injury. Stuart Broad will miss the first Test having picked up a hamstring strain in Cuttack during the fifth ODI. He will remain in England for intensive physiotherapy and then fly out to Chennai where his fitness will be reviewed ahead of the second Test.

The 14-man Test squad will be supplemented by 10 players from the Performance squad with Adil Rashid, the Yorkshire legspinner, a late addition on Thursday to bolster the spin department.

Squad Kevin Pietersen (capt), Andrew Strauss, Alastair Cook, Ian Bell, Paul Collingwood, Owais Shah, Andrew Flintoff, Tim Ambrose, Matt Prior, Graeme Swann, Stuart Broad (flying straight to Chennai), Steve Harmison, James Anderson, Monty Panesar.

Additional players Ravi Bopara, Mark Davies, Robbie Joseph, Amjad Khan, Sajid Mahmood, Samit Patel, Liam Plunkett, Ollie Rayner, Adil Rashid, Alan Richardson

Tennis : SOUTH ISLAND PRIMARY/INTERMEDIATE FINALS FIRE THROUGH

With the Semi Finalists decided Annabel Ellis, Gleniti School, was the only seed to fall on day one of the South Island Primary and Intermediate Finals.

Ashburton local, Hazel Redmond, won through her first round of singles with a solid win over Lauryne Ashby, Karoro, 6-2 6-2. Redmond then faced up to girls second seed Sian English, Tahuna Normal intermediate, where she was unable to compete with English’s accuracy in the first set but gamely fought back to take 3 games in the second set off her higher ranked opponent. Redmond will now play in a consolation draw semi final tomorrow against Ilsje Erasmus, Heaton Intermediate.

The Girls Semi finals see top seed Pang Suwanaposse, Merrin, (pictured) play unseeded Georgia Hume, Tahuna Normal Intermediate, Pang has yet to drop a game in this tournament and is the firm favourite to be take out the Girls title. The other semi final is between Sian English, Tahuna Normal Intermediate, and Chezle Phillips, Southbrook, who won a hard hitting battle with Ilsje Erasmus, Heaton Intermediate.

Boys 4th Seed Connor Heap, Cashmere, was pushed in both of his matches by Lawrence Darling, Cannington School, and later in the Quarter final by Kai Lee, Burnside, before he advanced to face the top seed, Elliot Darling, Waihi School, in tomorrow’s semi final. The Other Semi final will be contested by 2nd seed Benjamin Johnston, Medbury, and 3rd Seed Taylor Allan, Northern Southland, who have had straight forward victories in both rounds.

Main Draw results
Boys Singles -- Round of 16
Elliot Darling[1], Waihi School, SN d. Henry Neas, Nelson College, NB 6-0;6-1
Brett Allan, Northern Southern, SN d. Ben Grimshaw, St Patricks, CB 7-5;6-1
Connor Heap[4], Cashmere, CB d. Lawrence Darling, Cannington School, SN 5-7;6-3;6-0
Kai Lee, Burnside, CB d. Hugo Crosse, Fairhall School, MB 6-0;6-0
Shawn Nicholls, Greta Valley, CB d. Brayden Calder, Waimea Intermediate, NB 6-1;6-4
Taylor Allan[3], Northern Southern, SN d. Remy Rae, Karoro, WC 6-1;6-0
Sam Lane, Waihi School, SN d. Thomas Clyma, Cobham Intermediate, CB 2-6;6-2;6-3
Benjamin Johnston[2], Medbury, CB d. Andrew Forgesson, Bohally Intermediate, MB 6-0;6-0

Boys Singles -- Quarterfinals
Elliot Darling[1], Waihi School, SN d. Brett Allan, Northern Southern, SN 6-1;6-1
Connor Heap[4], Cashmere, CB d. Kai Lee, Burnside, CB 6-4;6-3
Taylor Allan[3], Northern Southern, SN d. Shawn Nicholls, Greta Valley, CB 6-2;6-0
Benjamin Johnston[2], Medbury, CB d. Sam Lane, Waihi School, SN 6-1;6-1

Girls Singles -- Round of 16
Pang Suwanaposee[1], Merrin, CB d. Laura Overton, Limehills School, SN 6-0;6-0
Jessica Shaw, Our Lady of Fatima, CB d. Georgia Low, Nelson, NB 6-0;6-4
Annabel Ellis[4], Gleniti School, SN d. Kendall Green, Bohally, MB 6-2;6-1
Georgia Hume, Tahuna Normal Intermediate, SN d. Zoe Berryman, Redcliffs, CB 7-5;6-1
Ilsje Erasmus, Heaton Intermediate, CB d. Charlotte Lamb, Craighead School, SN 6-4;6-0
Chezle Phillips[3], Southbrook, CB d. Arna Roberts, Rapaura, MB 6-0;6-1
Hazel Redmond, Ashburton Borough, CB d. Lauryne Ashby, Karoro, WC 6-2;6-2
Sian English[2], Tahuna Normal Intermediate, SN d. Gabriela Coates, Cathedral Grammar, CB 6-1;6-0

Girls Singles -- Quarterfinals
Pang Suwanaposee[1], Merrin, CB d. Jessica Shaw, Our Lady of Fatima, CB 6-0;6-0
Georgia Hume, Tahuna Normal Intermediate, SN d. Annabel Ellis[4], Gleniti School, SN 7-5;6-3
Chezle Phillips[3], Southbrook, CB d. Ilsje Erasmus, Heaton Intermediate, CB 6-2;6-4
Sian English[2], Tahuna Normal Intermediate, SN d. Hazel Redmond, Ashburton Borough, CB 6-0;6-3

Tennis : FUJI XEROX NZMT 2 DAY ONE OF MAIN DRAW

It was a good day for players North of the Harbour bridge on the first day of the main draw of the Fuji Xerox NZMT2 being played at Scarbro Tennis Centre. Anton Bettink, Kyle August (pictured) and Marco Comuzzo all won two matches to move through to matches against seeded players on Thursday. They will be joined by Auckland's Adam Lee who powered past an out of sorts Jamie Eccelton who had earlier scored a fine win over Martin Colenbrander.

Hawke's Bay player Kate Parker had a good day winning both her matches comfortably to reach the third round of the Configure Express circuit event as did North Harbour player Christine Foote. The other two women to reach the third round are Tiffany Wheelock from North Harbour and Aucklander Olivia Isbey.

Play begins at 10am on Thursday with third round matches followed by the women's quarterfinals at 1.30pm and the men's quarters at about 3pm. The top four seeds will be in action at the quarterfinal stage.

Draws - http://tennisnz.infonetwork.com/tournaments/draws.asp?tid=5185880

League : ROVELLI HEADING HOME TO LINK UP WITH NORTH QUEENSLAND FOR 2009 NRL SEASON

Auckland, New Zealand, December 3, 2008 – Vodafone Warriors halfback Grant Rovelli is heading home after signing a two-year NRL contract with the North Queensland Cowboys.
After racking up 68 appearances in his three seasons with the Vodafone Warriors, Rovelli (25) is returning to the club he initially played for as a junior.
While he had a year to run on his contract, Vodafone Warriors chief executive Wayne Scurrah said the club wouldn’t stand in his way.
“We’ve agreed to release Grant from his last season,” he said.
“We appreciate the great service he’s given the Vodafone Warriors and we wish him well in his career at the Cowboys and beyond. He has made a great contribution in his three seasons with us.”
But while Rovelli is joining the Cowboys, he and his partner Lauren will be staying in Auckland for a few more weeks yet – for a very good reason.
“Lauren’s due to have our first baby on December 18 so we won’t be going anywhere for a while,” he said.
“We’re going to have a little Kiwi birthday before we head to Australia and I’ll keep training with the boys at the Vodafone Warriors.”
While there would be disappointment leaving Mt Smart Stadium, Rovelli said he and Lauren were looking forward to being close to their home town of Mackay.
“We’re both from there and we’ll be close to our families,” he said.
“In a perfect world, we’d love to stay on but that’s the way footy goes sometimes. I’m not complaining.
“We’ve had a brilliant time in Auckland. I’ve loved playing for the Vodafone Warriors. This is where I was given my chance to play NRL football.
“I’ve made lots of great mates here, the coaching staff and management have helped me so much – I can’t thank everyone enough for the experience.”
Vodafone Warriors coach Ivan Cleary commended Rovelli on his contribution to the club.
“I’ve known Grant for a while and he’s champion bloke. He has been great around the club,” he said.
“I wish him all the very best and really hope everything works out well for him at the Cowboys.”

Tennis : TOP QUALITY FIELD FOR 2009 HEINEKEN OPEN

The 2009 Heineken Open featuring the Sovereign Singles and Doubles is set to have a top class field with the confirmation of the full player list today.

The January 12-17 tournament is highlighted by four top-20 ranked players as well as some of the fastest rising stars in the game, several players from the recent Davis Cup final and the return of both the finalists from 2008.

The top-20 players include current world No9, Argentine Juan Martin Del Potro who has had a remarkable year including a winning streak of 23 matches in a row beginning with his first career title at Stuttgart (beating Richard Gasquet in the final) and Kitzbuhel (defeated Jurgen Melzer for the title).

He followed that with two more back-to-back titles at Los Angeles accounting for Andy Roddick and Washington (beating Viktor Troicki) before the run of four in a row came to an end at the US Open quarterfinals with a loss to Andy Murray.

At No12 is the athletic Spaniard, David Ferrer a winner of the Heineken Open in 2007 and a player who has been as high as No4 and was the winner of titles at Valencia and s-Hertogenbosch while also reaching the quarters at Roland Garros this year.

Powerful Swede Robin Soderling is ranked at 17 and was a winner at Lyon and a finalist at Rotterdam, Memphis and Stockholm. Fourth seed will be world No18 is Spain’s Nicolas Almagro.

Almagro won his fourth career title early in 2008 by defeating Carlos Moya in the final of Costa Do Sauipe in Brazil. Shortly afterwards he won at Acapulco in Mexico beating then No8 David Nalbandian in straight sets in the final. There was also a quarterfinal result at Roland Garros.

The defending champion, Philipp Kohlschreiber of Germany and the 2008 finalist Juan Carlos Ferrero are both returning to provide more entertainment on court after what was a sensational final last January.

Kohlschreiber had a fantastic 2008, starting with the win in Auckland, he was also in the final at Halle on grass and the semifinals at Doha and Stuttgart.

For Ferrero the 7-6 7-5 loss at the Heineken Open was a bitter blow as he was aiming to add to his total of 11 career singles titles and to get his first since 2003. The former world No1 won Roland Garros in 2003 after being a finalist the previous year and was also a finalist at the US Open in 2003.



The field features three players who recently played in the Davis Cup final between Spain and Argentina they are Del Potro, Ferrer and Jose Acasuso ranked at No48.
Agustin Calleri is the next-in player to the main draw and also featured in the Davis Cup final.

A player of undeniable talent who is ranked just outside the world’s top-50 is Ernest Gulbis from Latvia. Known for his attacking style and his athletic ability the 20-year-old reached the quarters at Roland Garros with a win over James Blake and also reached the quarters at the Masters Series event in Cincinnati.

The tournament has a staggering six out of the eleven first time career-singles titles winners in 2008.

Del Potro who won his first title and then three more, tall American Sam Querrey gained his first with a victory in Las Vegas despite having a match point against him in the first round.

Spaniard Albert Montanes was another first time winner. The Barcelona native took out the Amersfoort title beating defending champion Steve Darcis in the final.

Russia’s Igor Kunitsyn came from nowhere to win the Moscow title defeating Marat Safin in three tough sets for the title. Romanian Victor Hanescu won his title at Gstaad beating No 10-ranked Stanislas Wawrinka in the semifinals and Igor Andreev in the final.

A surprise winner at Houston was Marcel Granollers(Spain) after storming through the early rounds he beat James Blake in the final for his first career title.

“To have four players in the top-20 is sensational,” says Heineken Open tournament director, Richard Palmer. “Having both finalists from the 2008 event return is great for the tournament, while players such as Gulbis are a real talent as are a number of first-time winners, many of whom are fresh faces to Auckland.”

Of the 19 direct entries seven are new to the main draw of the Heineken Open – Marc Gicquel, Granollers, Gulbis, Hanescu, Kunitsyn, Eduardo Schwank and Troicki.

The Heineken Open featuring the Sovereign singles and doubles will be held at the ASB Tennis Centre, January 12-17, 2009 with the first two days of qualifying January 10-11, 2009 at the Albany Tennis Park, Oteha Valley Road, Albany starting at 10am each day.

The 2009 tournament will feature live scoring as well as live streaming of play and audio podcasts.

www.heinekenopen.co.nz

Motor racing : A1GP’s Adam Carroll for Race of Champions

Adam Carroll’s exploits for the pride of his nation in A1GP World Cup of Motorsport have not gone un-noticed as the A1 Team Ireland driver has been invited to represent his country at the Race of Champions at London’s Wembley Stadium on the 14 December.

The driver from Portadown has taken his team to the top of the points’ standing in the series and now he is hoping to beat all comers, which will include seven times Formula One World Champion, Michael Schumacher, at the event which will see him drive rally cars and buggies. He will be teamed up with Irish rally star Gareth MacHale with this being the first time Ireland has been represented in this event.

"I am really looking forward to competing in the Race of Champions,” commented Carroll, ”because not only will it be great fun but also really interesting to drive so many types of vehicles against such an impressive line up of competitors. It's a unique opportunity to perform in such a famous venue as the new Wembley Stadium and to give motorsport fans a lot of entertainment over the course of one day. From a driving point of view, I am particularly looking forward to driving the World Rally Car and the buggies."

Fredrik Johnsson, President of event organisers IMP, said: “Ireland has a very rich heritage in motorsport. The fans there, especially in rallying, are among the most enthusiastic and passionate in the world, while the country has produced some wonderful drivers, from Eddie Irvine to Damien Faulkner.

“That’s why I am delighted to announce the first team to represent Ireland in The Race of Champions – they will have their work cut out as the new boys, but I’m certain they will rise to the challenge and, with the luck of the Irish on their side, who knows what they will achieve.”

With a host of well-known motorsport names including Schumacher, Sebastian Vettel, Tom Kristensen and Andy Priaulx, Ireland’s star-driver will take part in the ultimate racing celebration, which pits the best competitors from the world of two and four-wheeled motorsport together to show off their abilities on an asphalt track constructed on top of Wembley’s famous pitch.

Sixteen drivers will compete in a series of knockout heats in their own division to determine their class champion. Then, in a shoot-out to determine who is the master of motorsport, the winners from the two divisions will go head-to-head in a super final with the winner rewarded with the title “The Champion of Champions”.

Tickets for The Race of Champions are on sale now by calling +44 (0) 844 412 1743, or online at www.raceofchampions.com. Adult prices start at £18 and child tickets at £9.

basketball : support the Breakers!!

The boys are playing awesome basketball – and sitting on top of the table to prove it!

Now we need to pack out the NSEC and give them the full house they deserve. Please forward this to everyone you can, and let them know what they are missing if they aren’t watching the Breakers live on the North Shore this Thursday night.

www.nzbreakers.co.nz

Motor racing : Vodafone McLaren Mercedes Drivers Prepare For Winter Training Camp

Engineers from the Vodafone McLaren Mercedes are busily preparing for the 2009 season in Woking, Brixworth and Stuttgart. Meanwhile, the test team has been readying two cars for December outings to Jerez, Spain, and the new Autodromo Internacional do Algarve circuit in Portugal.

Elsewhere, Lewis Hamilton, Heikki Kovalainen, Pedro de la Rosa and Gary Paffett are preparing for an outing of a different kind; limbering up for a five-day pre-season training camp at the Kuortane Sports Institute in western Finland.

The human performance partner of Vodafone McLaren Mercedes, Kourtane has helped train some of the world’s top athletes, including Finland’s Olympic hopefuls, for more than 40 years. The training camp also acts as a useful team-building exercise, with mechanics and engineers joining the drivers for group exercises and tests at the Kuortane campus.

Lewis Hamilton

"Travelling to Finland for our winter training camp is one of the best weeks of the year for me; it feels like you’re miles from anywhere and totally cut off from the outside world. It allows me to focus solely on my training, which is great.

"It’s certainly not an easy week: Finland in the winter is cold and icy and we’re pushed hard for day after day. We spend the first part of the week doing tests to monitor our core strength and flexibility and spend the rest of the time building on specific exercises that will help us once we’re back in the car.

"After Brazil, it’s good to get a proper rest because it’s the one time of the year when you can relax your training a little. But Finland is when it all starts again in earnest. Brazil already seems a long time ago and I’m now focusing 100 per cent on 2009. I had my seat-fitting at MTC earlier this month and while the plan at the moment is to start testing in January, I’m really keen to get going.

"After Finland, I’m looking forward to a couple of big events in the UK. I’ll be attending the Autosport Awards, the Race of Champions and the BBC Sports Personality of the Year event. They’re all fantastic events and they give me a lot of energy because I get to spend time with some of my peers in a relaxed environment and also to meet the British fans, who are always fantastic.

"Before Christmas, I plan to take a holiday and return fresh and positive to kickstart our winter test programme with the MP4-24. I’ve already had a close look at the new car and the engineers have explained the philosophy behind it and just how different things will be next year.
"I’ve been watching testing with a lot of interest, I think the new cars will make next year’s championship wide open and I’m really looking forward to tackling the new regulations."

Heikki Kovalainen

"The end of the season is a very important time for me; it’s the best time of the year to properly rest and recharge before everything begins again. That’s why it’s so important for your fitness. It’s vital to start the year with very good core fitness because it’s difficult to train as much as you’d like during the season. That means the basic fitness level you reach over the winter is what keeps you going for much of the year.
"That’s why our training camp in Seinajoki is so important: it’s just for the team and there are no distractions. It’s a hard schedule; up early, and training all day - often outside in the cold - but it’s always fun. Of course, it helps that it’s in my home country of Finland, which makes it especially relaxing and rewarding for me.

"For me, the 2009 season started as soon as I got home from Brazil. I spent two days at the McLaren Technology Centre having my seat-fitting in the 2009 chassis - which already looks like a very promising car for next year, I went to Stars & Cars in Stuttgart, then I went on a short holiday.

"After the training camp, I’m really looking forward to getting back in the car after a month out of the cockpit. I’m testing in Jerez and Portimao later this month and then preparing over Christmas for my first taste of the MP4-24.

"For me, 2009 can’t start soon enough and I’m really looking forward to beginning I’m really looking to getting back in the car and understanding how the new regulations will affect the drivers. I can’t wait to get started."

Golf : Ion-Mask™ Shoe Wins Yet Another European Innovation Award

A new Hi-Tec golf shoe range, treated with P2i’s revolutionary ion-mask super-hydrophobic technology, has scooped a prestigious innovation award in Spain –the range’s second European award-win in two months.
The Altitude Ultra WPi golf range was awarded the prestigious accolade at the Muy Interesante Awards, hosted by the leading general interest and science magazine of the same name. With more than 3 million readers across Spain and Portugal, the magazine created this highly regarded award to acknowledge Brands that lead industry through research, development and innovation.

The ion-mask™ Hi-Tec shoe fought off stiff competition from a multitude of leading Brands including Adidas and Tissot for its enhanced performance capabilities. The shoe offers water repellency up to three times that of PTFE – currently regarded as the most water repellent material in the world, while also maintaining breathability for good air circulation and the prevention of blisters. Ion mask™ also protects the shoe externally, offering greater resistance to scuffs and stains.

Commenting on the win, Dr. Stephen Coulson, Research & Development Director of P2i and inventor of the ion-mask™ process said; “We are absolutely delighted that our technology has provided the WPi range with outstanding performance benefits unavailable in any other product in the golf shoe market. This is reflected in not one, but two awards, as the ion-mask™ range also won best in show innovation at the Golf Europe Awards last month.”

The range will be launched in May 2009.

Golf : Correction: Woburn To Host English Amateur Championship In 2011

CORRECTION: Please note that there has been an amendment to the English Golf Captains Championship in 2011. It is now being held on 8-9 October and the location is still to be confirmed. It is not as previously stated on 6-7 August at Selsdon Park.

Skiing: Positive Start For Mickel As First-Timers Are On Top In Lake Louise

British Alpine Ski Team member Finlay Mickel completed his first World Cup Downhill race 29th November since rupturing his Achilles tendon in Kvitfjell, Norway in February. The 30 year old Scot from Edinburgh finish 43rd in Lake Louise, Canada in a race dictated by the weather filled with surprises.

Coach Mike Pilarski commented “it was a mixed day. The purpose of this period for Fin is to be making steps towards performing in January and anything else is a bonus after last year.

The track has been cutting up a lot all week and there has been quite a few surprises. Today the weather controlled the race with racer number 65 coming into 2nd place as the weather cleared, just as it had done for racers 1 to 10.

I tried not to get exited but Fin was flying past me on the top section however he is still missing certain elements, and after poor preparation in training this week due to the weather and the course deterioration, it showed on the lower sections, 43rd was therefore on its own not too bad”.

Last season Mickel crashed during the World Cup Downhill race in Beaver Creek, fracturing his ankle and resulting in him missing the early part of the season. He fought his way back to race in January at Wengen, the longest and one of the most challenging courses on the World Cup circuit, before injuring himself during training in Kvitfjell.

The race was won by Peter Fill of Italy, his first career win. Second went to Swiss Carlo Janka, his first World Cup podium finish, and third went to Swede Hans Olsson, his first podium placing.

Cricket : PUMA® Signs England Star Andrew Flintoff

December 1st, 2008, London,– Today, PUMA®, the UK’s fastest growing sportslifestyle brand, announced the signing of Andrew Flintoff, to further boost the brand’s sports marketing portfolio.

Flintoff’s contract with PUMA® will see him play in PUMA® footwear, using PUMA cricket equipment as well as wearing PUMA® sportslifestyle ranges off the pitch.

Commenting on the four year deal Flintoff says: “As a brand, PUMA® goes beyond the performance needs of cricketers. PUMA® address design and individualism in a way that perfectly meets my interests and expectations – including being the first to introduce a pink cricket bat. Their innovation in cricket is unparalleled. I’m really excited to be joining the brand and looking forward to developing the relationship throughout the next stage of my career.”

"Be it on or off the cricket pitch, there is no doubt that Freddie completely embodies the PUMA® brand through his passion, style and individualism”, said Richard Callaway, Head of Sport at PUMA ®UK. “We revolutionized the game of cricket with a new way of looking at product. Dynamic players such as Adam Gilchrist, Brendon McCullum and Andrew Flintoff demand ever higher levels of performance, modern designs, innovative thinking and new technology. We are confident that this will be a successful and exciting partnership for both parties.”

In 2009 PUMA®'s cricket collection is 100% PVC free. This represents a huge leap forward in product development and PUMA®’s environmental responsibility. The benefits are great; product is of a much higher quality and weight is significantly reduced. PVC has traditionally been used in the production of cricket equipment because of its low cost and high durability. Everything from bat labels to the facing of batting pads and gloves has historically used PVC in their construction. However PVC is difficult to manufacture and hard to dispose of because of its chlorine content. Many environmental groups also advise against its use in consumer goods because of its harmful impact on the environment.

Comments Richard Callaway, “Working closely with our global cricket suppliers, we believe 100% PVC free has significantly improved the quality and performance of our entire cricket product. This is further proof that PUMA® is in tune with today's modern game and setting the standards in product innovation.”

PUMA® is the global athletic brand that successfully fuses influences from sport, lifestyle and fashion. PUMA’s unique industry perspective delivers the unexpected in sportlifestyle footwear, apparel and accessories, through technical innovation and revolutionary design. Established in Herzogenaurach, Germany in 1948, PUMA distributes products in over 80 countries. For further information please visit www.pumacricket.com

Golf : LPGA STARS CONFIRMED FOR HSBC WOMEN’S CHAMPIONS 2009

Singapore, 2nd December 2008 – HSBC were joined today in Singapore by top female golfers Yani Tseng, Suzann Pettersen, Cristie Kerr and Natalie Gulbis as they announced their attendance at the HSBC Women’s Champions at the Tanah Merah Country Club from 5th to 8th March, 2009.

Gulbis, Kerr and Pettersen appeared in the inaugural event and after solid seasons on the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) Tour, they will be eager to take the title and become Champion of Champions.

Joining them and making her first appearance will be Taiwanese rookie Yani Tseng who is flying high on the LPGA rankings after capturing her first Major at the McDonald’s LPGA Championship in June along with five second places and four more inside the top ten.

“I have had a great first season on Tour and I am very excited about taking part in the HSBC Women’s Champions next year. Winning my first Major in June was a brilliant experience for me and I would love to win this event too”, said Tseng at the press conference today.

Suzann Pettersen of Norway makes the grade for a second time following her 2007 Major victory at the LPGA Championship and her top ten positions in both the LPGA Official Money List and Rolex Rankings. She has come very close to claiming trophies this year and the HSBC Women’s Champions could be the time to do it as she kicks off the new season.

She said, “My season has been quite consistent and I have recovered from the injuries that dogged me at the end of last year. I am feeling good and determined to get back on top of the score board soon.”

Cristie Kerr is enjoying her best season on Tour with a victory at the Safeway Classic in August and she currently holds the number seven spot on the Rolex Rankings (as of 24th November).

“I have definitely found some form in the second half of this season and I am hoping I can keep the momentum going to the HSBC Women’s Champions here next year”, said Kerr at the Tanah Merah Country Club today.

Natalie Gulbis finished in the top twenty of the field in the inaugural event. She will be eager to climb up the leader board and kick start her 2009 season after mixed fortunes this year with a top-ten finish at the RICOH Women’s British Open her highest position to date.

“I am hoping to return to Singapore for the HSBC Women’s Champions in March,” said Gulbis. “It was an amazing inaugural event last year and definitely a great addition to the LPGA calendar.”

CEO of HSBC Singapore, Guy Harvey Samuel, welcomed the girls to town and expressed his delight at their confirmation for next year’s tournament saying, “The inaugural event was a global success and HSBC is delighted that we are able to bring these world class golfers back for a second year and that they are supporting us once again to make it the best female golfing event in the region.

“HSBC is committed to supporting golf on all levels and the continuation and growth of this event further cements our vision of being champions of golf worldwide.”

Chris Higgs, LPGA Senior Vice President and COO, reiterated what he said immediately after the event in March that it is one of the LPGA's top five tournaments. "They deliver a world-class golf tournament. There are a lot of companies and events that hope to, aspire to and try to deliver it. The proof is in the delivery and HSBC delivers."

The second staging of Asia’s richest ladies golf tournament will feature the top women in the world with reigning Champion Lorena Ochoa who also committed to making a return to the Garden City next year.

Robbie Henchman, Senior Vice President of IMG added, “We are delighted to welcome back defending champion Lorena and the other top players to the HSBC Women’s Champions and preparations are well underway for another fantastic event at Tanah Merah Country Club.

“The players have quickly adopted this event as a priority on their schedule and it has certainly lived up to expectations of being considered as Asia’s major on the LPGA Tour.”

The qualification criteria mirrors that of the men’s HSBC Champions, with winners from around the world invited to compete for the coveted “Champion of Champions” title. Winners on the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) Tour, leading money winners from the Japan Ladies Professional Golf Association (JLPGA), Korea Ladies Professional Golf Association (KLPGA) Tour, Ladies European Tour (LET), Australian Ladies Professional Golf (ALPG), Duramed FUTURES Tour, Ladies Asian Golf Tour (LAGT) and the top player from the continent of Africa will qualify, making this the most international and impressive women’s field ever assembled in Asia.

The HSBC Women’s Champions 2009 will boast a prize money of US$2 million (US$300,000 to the winner), the largest purse for a women’s event in Asia. The HSBC Women’s Champions, sanctioned by the LPGA, will be played over 72 holes of individual stroke play with a field of 78 golfers.

Tennis : FUJI XEROX NZMT 2 KICKS OFF

The Fuji Xerox NZMT 2 kicked off today at Scarbro Tennis Centre, Auckland with the qualifying going as expected with all four seeds qualifying. This tournament is the second Configure Express NZMT Circuit Tournament.

Top seed in the qualifying Goran Gerdin (TN) was taken to three sets by Wharenui Hawera (Wkto-Bays) in the first round, and then a tight two set against Hamish Duff before qualifying. Third seed Dima Babenkov had two three set battles before qualifying, meanwhile fellow Aucklander David Cliifford won this two rounds in straight sets. Second seed Ari Davis (TN) won his first round comfortably but was taken to three in his final round against Billy Strachan (AK) before prevailing.

In the girls qualifying, Zhanna Gonzur beat Claudia Williams. Caitlin Molloy and Frances Askew beat Anna Johnston (retired) and Jessica Hughson respectively in their qualifying matches, meanwhile wildcard entrant Julia Moriarty received a bye to get her straight into the main draw.

The main draw was published tonight with top seed again Dan King-Turner and Adam Thompson. Finn Tearney sits at third seed with Wesley Whitehouse at fourth seed. The men's draw has a lot of depth with the 5th-8th seeds being former Davis Cup player Rob Cheyne, wildcard entrant Steven Downs and youngsters James Meredith and Jackson Bodle (pictured).

In the women's, WTA ranked Australian Julia Moriarty is the top seed, with NZMT 1 winner Dianne Hollands coming in at second seed. Former pro player Tracey O'Connor was given a wildcard and slots in at third seed on National Ranking, and fellow Aucklander Abigail Guthrie as fourth seed.

Matches start at 10am tomorrow (Wednesday) with the finals being held on Friday.

Click here to view the draws: http://tennisnz.infonetwork.com/tournaments/draws.asp?tid=5185880

Rugby : RNZ 2011 welcomes “outstanding” draw

Pool draw brings New Zealand Tournament a step closer

The Pool Allocation Draw for Rugby World Cup 2011, held early this morning (NZ time) in London, will accelerate the planning for, and interest in, the New Zealand tournament, says Rugby New Zealand 2011 Ltd CEO Martin Snedden.

Held inside Tourism New Zealand’s giant rugby ball next to Tower Bridge in London, the draw has given international rugby fans their first view of the match-ups which will be on offer during the pool phase of Rugby World Cup 2011.

“This is an outstanding draw for our role as organisers with so many exciting match-ups across each of the pools,” said Mr Snedden, who was in London for the draw. “Rugby fans around the world will now be analysing their team’s pool and, we hope, will want to be there to see the contests unfold.”

The draw was based on the rankings of the 12 pre-qualified teams as at November 30. Among the tantalising pool clashes to be highlighted by the draw are New Zealand versus France in a repeat of the 1987 Rugby World Cup Final in Pool A; Argentina against England and England versus Scotland in Pool B; Australia playing Ireland in Pool C; and current Rugby World Cup holders South Africa against current Six Nations champions Wales in Pool D, a pool that also features Fiji and may also feature Samoa through qualification.

Pool Structure
The Pools, as announced by Rugby World Cup Limited, are:
Pool A
New Zealand
France
Tonga
Americas 1
Asia 1

Pool B
Argentina
England
Scotland
Europe 1
Play-off Winner

Pool C
Australia
Ireland
Italy
Europe 2
Americas 2

Pool D
South Africa
Wales
Fiji
Oceania 1
Africa 1

Pool Match Allocations
Mr Snedden said with the draw allocating each of the four pools, work could now begin in earnest on mapping the pool matches to the applications received from interested regions around New Zealand.

“It’s an exciting day for rugby fans, as it makes Rugby World Cup 2011 that much more tangible. They now know who their team is up against, and what they need to do to advance to the knock out stages,” he said.

“It’s also an important day for our ongoing preparations for the Tournament. We’ve had 18 regions from across New Zealand express interest in hosting matches or teams. Today’s announcement allows us to us to move the match and team allocation process forward.

“Over the next few months we’ll be working closely with Rugby World Cup Limited, to take the 40 pool matches that the draw has thrown up today and allocate them to venues around New Zealand.”

Decisions on match venues as well as the match schedule are expected to be announced in March or April 2009 following a recommendation by the Board of RNZ 2011 to Rugby World Cup Limited. Team bases will be announced in late 2009.

RWC 2011 knockout structure
Following the RWC 2011 pool matches, the knockout rounds will follow the same structure as RWC 2003 and RWC 2007. The full structure is as follows:

Quarter Final 1: Winner Pool B v Runner-up Pool A

Quarter Final 2: Winner Pool C v Runner-up Pool D

Quarter Final 3: Winner Pool A v Runner-up Pool B

Quarter Final 4: Winner Pool D v Runner-up Pool C

Semi-Final 1: Winner QF1 v Winner QF2

Semi-Final 2: Winner QF3 v Winner QF4

Bronze Final: Loser SF1 v Loser SF2

Final: Winner SF1 v Winner SF2

A1GP : Sepang Paddock Round Up

As the excitement continued on the track and Switzerland and Ireland took the spoils, the action continued in the paddock as A1GP enjoyed its last outing before the Christmas break in Sepang, Malaysia last week.

The week kicked off with another animal-themed outing, this time the drivers getting the chance to meet the Asian elephants at the world famous Kuala Gandah National Elephant Conservation Centre outside Kuala Lumpur.

Drivers from seven nations were given a rare opportunity, thanks to Tourism Malaysia, to ride an elephant in the jungle with the help of an elephant guide, or mahout, and help feed them.

Portugal’s Filipe Albuquerque, France’s Loïc Duval, India’s Armaan Ebrahim, Lebanon’s Jimmy Auby, New Zealand’s Chris van der Drift, Indonesia’s Satrio Hermanto and local Malaysian drivers Fairuz Fauzy and Aaron Lim all had the chance to visit the sanctuary.

It is estimated that there are only 1,200 wild Asian Elephants left in Malaysia and this is the only conservation centre set up to provide them a sanctuary in the wild. Since opening, the centre has relocated more than 500 elephants from areas where their habitats were encroached by plantations or other human development, to other suitable habitats throughout Peninsular Malaysia.

The centre is currently home to 14 elephants, aged between three and 32 years old. The drivers were able to meet five of these, as the centre strives to educate visitors in the importance of habitat and environmental conservation.

Away from the elephants, another driver was also experiencing the Malaysian wildlife. A1 Team Monaco’s Clivio Piccione took time out in the days before A1GP Sepang, to visit the KL Bird Park.

Located in the serene Kuala Lumpur Lake Gardens, it is the world's largest free-flight walk-in aviary and is home to over 3000 birds of 200 local and foreign bird species. Piccione was very impressed by his first experience of being able to hold and get extremely close to all the birds. His visit also coincided with a group of kids from the Kajang Orphanage, who were on holiday and only too happy to get Clivio's autograph.

Drivers from A1 Teams Malaysia, Monaco, Indonesia and Lebanon, also took to the red carpet at the third annual OK! Magazine Malaysia party on Saturday evening in Kuala Lumpur. The party was held at the popular Zouk nightclub and the drivers received a warm welcome from celebrities and fans who had their pictures taken with them and got to meet their racing heroes.

Back on the track, an incident involving USA, Brazil and India meant a busy race day for the teams involved. As the cars came in formation towards the rolling start of the Sprint race, the pack appeared to pick up pace as it approached the start line, but then backed off causing a concertina effect towards the back of the field.

The USA car of Marco Andretti and the Brazilian car of Felipe Guimarães took it in turn to climb over the back of Narain Karthikeyan’s Indian entry scattering debris across the pit straight. Due to the damage sustained, it looked probable that none of the cars involved would be able to make the grid for the Feature race only fours later, but thanks to some fast and dedicated work from the crews, a full grid was in place that afternoon. Andretti went on to finish third and score his first A1GP podium while Guimarães finished seventh, his personal best race result.

In motorsport, glory can turn into disaster on the turn of a wheel nut though, or in the case of A1 Team Malaysia the pressing of a button. Fairuz Fauzy had a great home Feature race and was looking to claim his third podium of the year on a weekend when 47,000 Malaysians turned up at the Sepang International Circuit to cheer him on. It says a lot for the strength of character of the driver that he was prepared to sit in front of his media to be grilled on what happened during the race that robbed him of a podium.

It is difficult to say whether it was as simple or as complex as his in-car radio picking up a message that was meant for another driver. He heard the words his team use to bring him into the pits and, as he was already having problems communicating with them, could do nothing but respond. An investigation has pinpointed the call from A1 Team Great Britain as the message he heard. While it is impossible to replicate away from Sepang the scenario, the organisers are sure this is what happened and it must have been a combination of freak circumstances that led him to hear this message and dive into the pits from a safe third place.

Now as the team’s nominated lead driver, the 26-year-old, who was born down the road from the Sepang circuit in Kuala Lumpur, has come into his own. He was able to master the atrocious conditions in Zandvoort to not only claim his first A1GP podium, but at the same time his first win. His exploits since he began his racing career in karts at the age of eight have been impressive and he is certainly one of the finest drivers in his peer group to hail from Malaysia.

As the sun set on the final race meeting of the year, most the teams began heading to their respective homes, however a number of A1GP representatives headed on to Australia’s Gold Coast. Alongside a driver from A1 Team Australia and V8 Supercars, they joined together to announce the co-headline event which is scheduled for 22 -25 October 2009.

A1GP World Cup of Motorsport and V8 Supercars Australia will co-headline the biggest motorsport event in Australia on the Gold Coast with a newly designed pit complex to host forty teams from A1GP and V8’s combined.

Terry Mackenroth Chairman Gold Coast Events Co: “We are happy to formally announce a contract with A1GP for the next five years here on the Gold Coast. We will continue our association with V8 Supercars. To complete an agreement for a replacement to the IRL as far as motorsport is concerned was in record time. We first met with A1GP in 2007 to see how their series operated in Taupo and are happy with the proposal and future of A1GP with Tony Teixeira”

A1GP now has an extended Christmas break with the teams having time to reflect on the first three events of the season and prepare for the trip to New Zealand in the New Year when battle resumes in Taupo on 23 – 25 January 2009.

Motoring : Lamborghini Super Trofeo Impressive Results In Early Testing

Sant’Agata Bolognese, 25th November 2008 - Last week saw the Automobili Lamborghini development team and engineers from tyre partner Pirelli put the Gallardo Super Trofeo through its paces on the Vallelunga Race Track outside Rome. This marked the first tests under simulated race conditions, with Lamborghini test driver Giorgio Sanna behind the wheel. From the very outset, the lap times achieved were faster than any ever recorded with a single-brand trophy race car on this track.

The new Lamborghini Gallardo Super Trofeo delivered the first evidence of its outstanding performance in initial testing, with extremely good handling and excellent lap times. Preparations for the Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo are running well within schedule. The first race of the world’s fastest single-brand competition is set to be run on 2 May 2009 at Silverstone. The focus of the calibration work was on the tyres and the race car set-up. “During the 40 minute race, the drivers are not permitted to change the tyres. Therefore, we have to pay particularly close attention to the durability of the slicks,” explains Giorgio Sanna. Exceptionally good handling Particular attention was also paid to the individual calibration options for the new race car based on the various tracks and drivers. “The Super Trofeo should be easy for gentlemen drivers to control, yet challenging for professional drivers,” says Sanna, who has already carried out rain tests on the race track in Nardo. “The permanent all-wheel drive and high aerodynamic downforce give the Gallardo Super Trofeo exceptionally good handling.” “We are well within our schedule, and will continue to push things forward,” says Manfred Fitzgerald, who is Director of Brand and Design for Lamborghini and responsible for the Super Trofeo. “Ultimately, we want to provide our teams with a race car that is not only fast, but also perfectly reliable.” Automobili Lamborghini S.p.A. Communications and ArtiMarca Director Dominik Hoberg dominik.hoberg@lamborghini.com Communications Department and ArtiMarca Rita Passerini rita.passerini@lamborghini.com Press Office – Italy and Southern Europe Clara Magnanini clara.magnanini@lamborghini.com Press Office – Northern Europe Claudia Schneider claudia.schneider@lamborghini.com Press Office – UK and Middle East Juliet Jarvis juliet@jjc.uk.com Press Office– North America Soon Nguyen soon@luxecommunications.com Via Modena, 12 40019 Sant’Agata Bolognese Telefono +39 051-6817716 Telefax +39 051-6817737 www.lamborghini.com
The world’s fastest single-brand trophy The Super Trofeo is the only one-make series in the motorsport world to feature cars with all-wheel drive. And it is Lamborghini’s clear objective to ensure that it will be the fastest single-brand series in the world – partly due to the technical superiority of the all-wheel drive principle. Starting in May, the Super Trofeo will make guest appearances at six race events – at Silverstone (UK), on the Adria Raceway (Italy), on the Norisring (Germany), in Spa (Belgium), in Barcelona (Spain) and on Paul Ricard racetrack (France). Lamborghini is building 30 cars for the Super Trofeo, which they are making available to individual enthusiasts, as well as to Lamborghini dealer teams. The factory will enter one car for itself, and plans to commission well-known guest drivers to take the wheel. And on the edge of the racing action, the Super Trofeo Village hospitality venue will be available. A top-class race car The Super Trofeo race car is based on the Gallardo LP 560-4, powered by the new 5.2 litre V10 with direct fuel injection (IDS), generating an increased output of 419 kW (570 hp). Its power flows through the e.gear six-speed robotized gear box to the permanent all-wheel drive with viscous traction – the kind of power transmission perfectly suited to motorsport. The Super Trofeo is a top-class race car in every detail. Its chassis, featuring double wishbone suspension all round, has been reworked specifically for the purpose. The competition tyres are supplied by Pirelli and a specialist racing brake system provides brutal stopping power with racing ABS. Additional body components such as the large, adjustable rear wing are made from carbon-fibre composite. The cockpit incorporates an ultra-light race seat, a racing steering wheel and additional specialized racing instruments.

Motor sport: LG Electronics Becomes A Global Partner Of Formula 1™

London, England 26 November 2008 – LG Electronics (LG), a global leader and technology innovator in consumer electronics, today announced that it has signed an agreement to become a Global Partner of Formula 1™ and a Technology Partner of Formula 1™. As part of this top level association LG acquires exclusive designations and marketing rights as the official Consumer Electronics, Mobile Phone and Data Processor of Formula 1™. The multi-year agreement runs from January 2009.

“Formula One represents the absolute peak of technological innovation and style, which is also our vision for the LG Electronics brand,” said Dermot Boden, Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) of LG Electronics. “We feel the excitement and electricity of F1 is unmatched by any sport, and we feel the same passion and energy here at LG.”

“LG is a leader in its field, it pioneers cutting edge technology, delivering innovation and excellence in a stylish package, which is what Formula 1 is about too”, said Bernie Ecclestone, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Formula One Group. “We have so much in common, I am very excited to begin our association and look forward to the technology solutions they can bring to us also.”

As the Official Data Processor of Formula 1™ LG will be identified and credited on the official live timing service at Formula One events and in the associated timing and data TV graphics. They will also enjoy a comprehensive package of premium marketing rights worldwide in association with the Formula 1™ brand.

Boden added, “In today’s economic climate, all organizations need to be strategic with their expenditures. Here at LG we can think of no more important investment than our brand. After having carefully researched marketing and sponsorship opportunities, I am confident that this exciting partnership will best highlight and enhance the profiles of both global organizations over the long term.”

For a VNR of the press conference and details of satellite feed times please register or log onto www.icnsport.com

Rugby : 2009 Rebel Sport Super 14 wider training groups announced

The wider training groups for the five New Zealand teams in the 2009 Rebel Sport Super 14 have been announced.

The players named today will act as back-up and provide injury cover for the full squads announced in October.

The 2009 Rebel Sport Super 14 wider training groups are:

Blues: Auckland prop Nick White, North Harbour prop James Afoa, Auckland hooker Francis Smith, Auckland lock/loose forward Dean Budd, Auckland loose forward Peter Saili, Auckland halfback Grayson Hart, Auckland midfielder Winston Stanley, North Harbour wing Vili Waqaseduadua, North Harbour fullback George Pisi.

Auckland fullback Dave Thomas will join the Blues group while George Pisi is rehabilitating from injury.

Chiefs: Waikato prop Hikairo Forbes, Waikato hooker Ole Avei, Bay of Plenty lock Culum Retallick, Waikato lock Romana Graham, Bay of Plenty flanker Luke Braid, Waikato loose forward Tom Harding, Waikato halfback David Bason, Waikato first five/fullback Trent Renata, Waikato wing Tim Mikkelson.

Outside his New Zealand Sevens squad commitments Bay of Plenty loose forward Solomon King will train with the Chiefs wider training group.

Hurricanes: Taranaki prop Shane Cleaver, Wellington hooker Ged Robinson, Taranaki lock/loose forward Jarred Hoeata, Wellington lock Bernie Upton, Manawatu loose forward Nick Crosswell, Hawke’s Bay halfback Chris Eaton, Taranaki midfielder Nathan Hohaia, Manawatu wing Andre Taylor

Manawatu hooker Sean O’Connor will join the Hurricanes group while Andrew Hore is rehabilitating from injury.

Crusaders: Canterbury prop Peter Borlase, Tasman hooker Dan Perrin, Canterbury lock James Broadhurst, Tasman loose forward Jack Lam, Canterbury halfback Tyson Keats, Canterbury five eighth Hamish Gard, Tasman winger Blair Cook.

Steve Fualau will join the Crusaders group while Corey Flynn is rehabilitating from injury.

Highlanders: Otago prop Keith Cameron, Otago hooker Peter Mirrielees, Otago loose forward Paul Grant, Southland halfback Scott Cowan, Otago first five Chris Noakes, Otago midfielder Aaron Bancroft, Southland utility back Pehi Te Whare, Otago wing Karne Hesketh.

All selections are subject to final medical clearance.

NZRU General Manager Professional Rugby Neil Sorensen congratulated all the players selected and said they are a vital part of each franchise.

“It’s a long tough season so these guys could get called up at any time. Whether they get to play or not there’s no doubt it will be a fantastic experience for them and I’m sure they will become better players as a result of their involvement.”

Netball : ANZ Championship Squads Update

The ANZ Championship has today granted a further 18 working days extension to The Central Pulse franchise in order for the franchise to finalise their playing roster.

Southern Steel, Canterbury Tactix and The Central Pulse franchise had been granted an initial 20 working day extension to finalise their squads. The teams were due to announce their squads today however the Central Pulse asked the ANZ Championship for a further extension to announce their squad on the premise they have only just finalized their new head coach appointment Yvette McCausland-Durie today.

The ANZ Championship took this into consideration and agreed to a further extension. The Central Pulse franchise must now have their confirmed playing roster finalized by 24 December 2008.

The Ascot Park Hotel Southern Steel have applied to the Eligibility Committee to re-consider the eligibility status of their 12th player. ANZ Championship and Netball New Zealand are currently coordinating the appeal process. SKOPE Canterbury Tactix will be naming their 12th player later today.

Netball : NEW CENTRAL PULSE COACHED ANNOUNCED

The Central Pulse franchise has today announced Yvette McCausland-Durie will coach the Central Pulse in the 2009 season of the ANZ Championship.

Central Pulse Chair Nigel Kirkpatrick is pleased the appointment will bring the Central Pulse a wealth of expertise and experience from the Central region as well as from her role as the NZU21 Coach.

“Yvette has done a lot for the Central Netball region having been involved for many years with Netball Manawatu and a past coach of the Western Flyers. She has shown she has a great aptitude for developing players at all levels and we have great faith in her ability to build up a competitive team for 2009.”

McCausland-Durie will now go about finalizing her coaching support team over the next week. Due to the late appointment of McCausland-Durie the ANZ Championship has now granted the Central Pulse franchise a further 18 working days extension to finalise their playing roster.

Central Pulse Chair Nigel Kirkpatrick said they were working through negotiations with players but due to the late appointment of their new head coach they felt it only prudent to ask for an extension so they could have coach involvement in finalising the player roster.

McCausland-Durie said she was thrilled to take on the new role as head coach of the central Pulse.

“I have a huge amount of passion for developing netball in the central region and I am really excited at the challenge of bringing together the most competitive Central Pulse team to compete in the 2009 ANZ Championship,” she said.