Thursday’s seventh meeting of the 2009 Dubai International Racing Carnival, kindly sponsored by the Commercial Bank Of Dubai, is a nine race card featuring the Group 2 Al Fahidi Fort.
Seven have been declared for the 1600m turf feature in which South African trainers are seeking a sixth win in seven years and jockey Kevin Shea is bidding to win it for a fourth consecutive year.
The South African partners Imbongi for compatriot Mike De Kock who has won the race three times, twice with Shea and saddles two this year and the jockey, says:
“It is certainly a race I have enjoyed a lot of success in and it was our win with Ipi Tombe in 2003 which really put Mike (De Kock) and I on the map here in Dubai. Imbongi ran a really nice race on his first start here and hopefully we can go close.”
De Kock also saddles Hunting Tower, the mount of Frankie Dettori, and the trainer added: “He won well first time but then only had a week between races which, in hindsight, was not long enough. I expect both to run well.”
Shea combined with Herman Brown to win this in both 2006 and 2007 with Linngari but it is John Egan in the saddle on the trainer’s Traffic Guard this year.
Runner-up to Epsom Derby winner New Approach in last year’s Irish Champion Stakes, he has had a run this carnival and Brown expects a big run: “We knew he would need his comeback and he has been going well since. These races are never easy to win but he should give a good account.”
Johnny Murtagh partners Summit Surge, a carnival winner already this year for fellow Irishman Ger Lyons and he appears the main danger to the South Africans in a race the internationals have dominated since 2002.
De Kock’s 2008 UAE Derby winner Honour Devil reappears in the Al Dana Investment Plate, a 1600m dirt conditions race with Murtagh resuming his partnership with the four-year-old who also landed the UAE 2000 Guineas last year.
Stubbs Art is an interesting newcomer for the De Kock team and may have most to fear from Australia’s Valedictum in the 1500m turf handicap, the Mustaqbali Handicap.
The main support race is the sole Purebred Arabian race, the 1200m Group 2 Bani Yas, also on the grass.
Rod Simpson’s National Day Cup winner Fryvolous will be hard to beat even with his Group 1 penalty.
Saeed Bin Suroor is the leading trainer at the Carnival and has big chances with Asset in the 1200m CBD Visa Infinite Card Trophy and Irish Mayhem in the 2000m Attijari Al Islami Trophy.
Bin Suroor’s Yamal in the Commercial Bank of Dubai, the second 1500m turf handicap on the card, Sugar Ray in the CBD Financial Services 2400m grass handicap and Captain Webb in the concluding Al Dana Wealth Management 2400m turf handicap are also strong contenders.
The Pick 7 competition has over AED133,000 available to be won in the free to enter on course tipping competitions, including just over AED25,000 to be shared by race goers selecting all seven winners.
The breakdown for the Pick 7 and Tricast competitions are as follows:
Pick 7/7: AED25,025
Pick 6/7: AED12,000
Pick 5/7: AED8,000
Pick 4/7: AED5,000
Early Tricast: AED5,000
Middle Tricast: AED12,000
Late Tricast: AED68,000
Friday, February 20, 2009
Silverstone Unveils Dynamic Modifications To Circuit Layout
Silverstone Circuits Limited has unveiled provisional plans for a number of striking modifications to the track and spectator viewing areas at the UK’s premier motor racing venue. The most significant addition to the circuit will be a new section of track running from the approach at Abbey corner to a spectacular ‘Arrowhead’ at the inside of Becketts.
The Arrowhead will then join up with the existing National Straight. Additional sections of track will also be laid at Chapel and Club in anticipation of FIM MotoGP World Championship motorcycle racing at Silverstone.
The announcement follows the recent signing of a five year agreement between Silverstone and Dorna that will see MotoGP racing at the iconic Northamptonshire circuit from 2010. Several alterations are being made to make the circuit more bike-friendly. The alterations have already been extensively discussed with FIM and will be in accordance with their regulations and subject to final homologation. However, the new Arrowhead, and fast section of circuit leading up to it, are designed to be a stunning feature for riders, drivers and spectators alike.
The Arrowhead and its approach will provide a focal point for overtaking and will be surrounded by several new spectator areas. It will also be overlooked by the grandstand at Becketts, providing fans with an opportunity to see two sections of track from the one vantage point.
Both MotoGP and British Superbike riders will also be pleased to see that the plans include the moving of grandstands and safety barriers at Woodcote. This will enable the circuit to build a new run off area at the fast entry to Pit Straight and dispose of the slow chicane, which is currently a necessity for safety purposes.
The new plans form part of a £5 million investment by Silverstone, with work set to be carried out between November 2009 and March 2010. In addition to changes to the track, improvements to spectator viewing facilities will include moving some of the existing grandstands to bring them closer to the track.
Richard Phillips, Managing Director of Silverstone Circuits Limited, commented, “Silverstone is one of the easiest circuits to get in and out of in the world, we have sizeable hard-standing car parks, and the facilities for teams, media and fans are second to none. We are happy with the infrastructure, but we now have an opportunity to make some exciting changes to the circuit and fundamental improvements to the viewing experience for fans.
“The new Arrowhead on the inside of Becketts will be a major new feature of the circuit. The fast approach and sharp left should provide plenty of opportunities to overtake, making it a real focal point for spectators. The views will be fantastic, especially from the new spectator banking areas and grandstands we will be building around the Arrowhead.
“The viewing experience for fans is hugely important and we now have an opportunity to make sure it is absolutely right, all around the circuit. The new layout will also enable fans to circulate around the venue more easily, to watch all the action from different vantage points. We are making a significant investment but it is absolutely worth it. Early feedback from both riders and drivers has been very positive. The chicane at Woodcote is going and changes to other sections of the circuit should result in increased overtaking opportunities.”
Phillips also confirmed that the planned changes would not mean the end for the current Grand Prix circuit, “This year’s Formula 1 British Grand Prix will take place on the current Grand Prix circuit and that circuit will continue to be available to us for appropriate events. However, the new layout will be more suitable for twowheeled racing, and will be an exciting circuit for both two and four-wheeled events.”
The Arrowhead will then join up with the existing National Straight. Additional sections of track will also be laid at Chapel and Club in anticipation of FIM MotoGP World Championship motorcycle racing at Silverstone.
The announcement follows the recent signing of a five year agreement between Silverstone and Dorna that will see MotoGP racing at the iconic Northamptonshire circuit from 2010. Several alterations are being made to make the circuit more bike-friendly. The alterations have already been extensively discussed with FIM and will be in accordance with their regulations and subject to final homologation. However, the new Arrowhead, and fast section of circuit leading up to it, are designed to be a stunning feature for riders, drivers and spectators alike.
The Arrowhead and its approach will provide a focal point for overtaking and will be surrounded by several new spectator areas. It will also be overlooked by the grandstand at Becketts, providing fans with an opportunity to see two sections of track from the one vantage point.
Both MotoGP and British Superbike riders will also be pleased to see that the plans include the moving of grandstands and safety barriers at Woodcote. This will enable the circuit to build a new run off area at the fast entry to Pit Straight and dispose of the slow chicane, which is currently a necessity for safety purposes.
The new plans form part of a £5 million investment by Silverstone, with work set to be carried out between November 2009 and March 2010. In addition to changes to the track, improvements to spectator viewing facilities will include moving some of the existing grandstands to bring them closer to the track.
Richard Phillips, Managing Director of Silverstone Circuits Limited, commented, “Silverstone is one of the easiest circuits to get in and out of in the world, we have sizeable hard-standing car parks, and the facilities for teams, media and fans are second to none. We are happy with the infrastructure, but we now have an opportunity to make some exciting changes to the circuit and fundamental improvements to the viewing experience for fans.
“The new Arrowhead on the inside of Becketts will be a major new feature of the circuit. The fast approach and sharp left should provide plenty of opportunities to overtake, making it a real focal point for spectators. The views will be fantastic, especially from the new spectator banking areas and grandstands we will be building around the Arrowhead.
“The viewing experience for fans is hugely important and we now have an opportunity to make sure it is absolutely right, all around the circuit. The new layout will also enable fans to circulate around the venue more easily, to watch all the action from different vantage points. We are making a significant investment but it is absolutely worth it. Early feedback from both riders and drivers has been very positive. The chicane at Woodcote is going and changes to other sections of the circuit should result in increased overtaking opportunities.”
Phillips also confirmed that the planned changes would not mean the end for the current Grand Prix circuit, “This year’s Formula 1 British Grand Prix will take place on the current Grand Prix circuit and that circuit will continue to be available to us for appropriate events. However, the new layout will be more suitable for twowheeled racing, and will be an exciting circuit for both two and four-wheeled events.”
Catch Tiger Back On The Big Stage
Golf fans desperate to catch an early glimpse of Tiger Woods back on the big stage can do just that with an exclusive trip to The Masters with Your Golf Travel.com – and get a free golf break to boot.
With Woods return to fitness coming ever closer, the greatest competition in golf will be his first attempt at a major since his US Open win at Torrey Pines and Your Golf Travel is offering more than 20 exclusive packages to Augusta, Georgia.
Whether fans travelling to Augusta want accommodation, tickets and hospitality or just one of the three, Your Golf Travel can give them a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and make sure they’re where they want to be when the crucial putt is holed.
Packages start from £1,165 with a range of four or five-star hotels on offer and can include tickets to the practice rounds, par-three tournament and all four days of the main event. Breaks can be tailored for anything from two nights up to seven and if watching the pros makes you want to hit the fairways can even include golf.
Andrew Harding, managing director of Your Golf Travel, said: “For most people The Masters marks the real start of the golfing season so why not watch it in style and make sure you’re greenside at Augusta.
“Our packages to the majors always prove popular and The Masters is no different. Our on-site staff will tend to every need and make sure it’s a trip to remember.
“Tiger will be looking to end Padraig Harrington’s domination of the majors and I for one don’t want to miss a second of it. His comeback is bound to be extra special.”
Anyone buying a package will also get one night’s dinner bed and breakfast at Stoke Park and a round of golf before their trip to the States, absolutely free. The break could prove ideal preparation for the main event with the Buckinghamshire course’s seventh hole widely believed to be the inspiration for Augusta’s 12th, one of the three renowned holes making up Amen Corner.
For more information call 0800 043 6644 or go to www.yourgolftravel.com/usmasters.html.
With Woods return to fitness coming ever closer, the greatest competition in golf will be his first attempt at a major since his US Open win at Torrey Pines and Your Golf Travel is offering more than 20 exclusive packages to Augusta, Georgia.
Whether fans travelling to Augusta want accommodation, tickets and hospitality or just one of the three, Your Golf Travel can give them a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and make sure they’re where they want to be when the crucial putt is holed.
Packages start from £1,165 with a range of four or five-star hotels on offer and can include tickets to the practice rounds, par-three tournament and all four days of the main event. Breaks can be tailored for anything from two nights up to seven and if watching the pros makes you want to hit the fairways can even include golf.
Andrew Harding, managing director of Your Golf Travel, said: “For most people The Masters marks the real start of the golfing season so why not watch it in style and make sure you’re greenside at Augusta.
“Our packages to the majors always prove popular and The Masters is no different. Our on-site staff will tend to every need and make sure it’s a trip to remember.
“Tiger will be looking to end Padraig Harrington’s domination of the majors and I for one don’t want to miss a second of it. His comeback is bound to be extra special.”
Anyone buying a package will also get one night’s dinner bed and breakfast at Stoke Park and a round of golf before their trip to the States, absolutely free. The break could prove ideal preparation for the main event with the Buckinghamshire course’s seventh hole widely believed to be the inspiration for Augusta’s 12th, one of the three renowned holes making up Amen Corner.
For more information call 0800 043 6644 or go to www.yourgolftravel.com/usmasters.html.
International Federation Netball Association (IFNA) Announce New Netball Rules For World Netball Series
The top six netball nations will play by new netball rules announced today by the International Federation Netball Association (IFNA) for the World Netball Series.
Supported by the Northwest Regional Development Agency (NWDA), a launch event in Manchester’s Arndale Centre saw the unveiling of the rules and logo for the new fast-past and compelling Series, to be played in Manchester in October.
In the space of three hours, spectators will witness some of the world’s greatest netball, promising a fast, ferocious and vibrant competition raising the profile of the sport and attracting new participants and spectators.
A number of innovative rule changes have been introduced for this high profile Series, designed to test the fitness, technical ability and tactical awareness of the best players in the world. Each game will be played over four, six-minute quarters, promising an awesome, high-energy spectacle.
The new rules are set to arouse interest, and once the game is witnessed, it is hoped spectators will be hooked and desperate to play the game themselves.
The following rule principles for the new event have been approved
• Matches will be 4 x 6 minutes with 3 x 2 minutes breaks
• Rolling Substitutions: Unlimited number of Rolling Substitutions per team per quarter is allowed. Each team may make any number of Rolling Substitutions at any one time. A Rolling Substitute may enter the game while play is in progress. There will be a designated Substitution Box at each transverse line, and located next to the Coaching Area, where Rolling Substitute/s shall wait holding up a Substitution Paddle indicating the player/s to be substituted. Team changes may not be made during a Rolling Substitution, as the game is not stopped
• The Official Team Bench is located on the opposite side of the Court from the Team Benches and Substitution Boxes
• After a goal is scored, the game restarts from a Centre Pass taken by the team who conceded the last goal. The Captain winning the toss chooses end or 1st centre pass at the start of the 1st and 3rd quarter. The other team will have 1st Centre Pass at the start of the 2nd and 4th quarter
• There is no Umpire whistle after a goal is scored
• Coaches will be allowed to coach from the Team bench or coaching area, located in front of their team bench. The Coaching Area will be marked on the floor
• Each team will elect one quarter as a Power Play when any goals scored will be doubled. The elected Power Play quarter must be notified by the Coach before the quarter commences, by pressing the control button to turn on a light
• Shooters may shoot from inside or outside of the Goal Circle. All successful goals from outside the Goal Circle will be worth double i.e. two Goal Points. The umpire will signal a successful Goal by raising one hand for one Goal Point and two hands for two Goal Points (In a Power Play this could result in 1 Goal scoring 2 Goal Points or 4 Goal Points)
• All stoppages for injury or illness will be 30 seconds
Peter Mearns, Executive Director of Marketing and Communications at the NWDA said: “England’s Northwest is quite rightly regarded as one of the world’s greatest sporting regions. Manchester in particular has been able to prove time and time again that it can successfully host a whole manner of major sporting events that contribute to the development of the region’s image and its tourism potential.
”Today’s launch event has successfully highlighted a sport that is accessible for all and I look forward to October when the Series will be contested across the city.”
Councillor Mike Amesbury, Executive Member for Culture and Leisure at Manchester City Council, said: “Manchester, as the home to the international federation IFNA, is delighted to be hosting this world class event and to be welcoming the very best netball nations to the city. We are committed to making the World Netball Series a huge success whilst ensuring that our residents and communities benefit from the opportunities that this event will create.”
Supported by the Northwest Regional Development Agency (NWDA), a launch event in Manchester’s Arndale Centre saw the unveiling of the rules and logo for the new fast-past and compelling Series, to be played in Manchester in October.
In the space of three hours, spectators will witness some of the world’s greatest netball, promising a fast, ferocious and vibrant competition raising the profile of the sport and attracting new participants and spectators.
A number of innovative rule changes have been introduced for this high profile Series, designed to test the fitness, technical ability and tactical awareness of the best players in the world. Each game will be played over four, six-minute quarters, promising an awesome, high-energy spectacle.
The new rules are set to arouse interest, and once the game is witnessed, it is hoped spectators will be hooked and desperate to play the game themselves.
The following rule principles for the new event have been approved
• Matches will be 4 x 6 minutes with 3 x 2 minutes breaks
• Rolling Substitutions: Unlimited number of Rolling Substitutions per team per quarter is allowed. Each team may make any number of Rolling Substitutions at any one time. A Rolling Substitute may enter the game while play is in progress. There will be a designated Substitution Box at each transverse line, and located next to the Coaching Area, where Rolling Substitute/s shall wait holding up a Substitution Paddle indicating the player/s to be substituted. Team changes may not be made during a Rolling Substitution, as the game is not stopped
• The Official Team Bench is located on the opposite side of the Court from the Team Benches and Substitution Boxes
• After a goal is scored, the game restarts from a Centre Pass taken by the team who conceded the last goal. The Captain winning the toss chooses end or 1st centre pass at the start of the 1st and 3rd quarter. The other team will have 1st Centre Pass at the start of the 2nd and 4th quarter
• There is no Umpire whistle after a goal is scored
• Coaches will be allowed to coach from the Team bench or coaching area, located in front of their team bench. The Coaching Area will be marked on the floor
• Each team will elect one quarter as a Power Play when any goals scored will be doubled. The elected Power Play quarter must be notified by the Coach before the quarter commences, by pressing the control button to turn on a light
• Shooters may shoot from inside or outside of the Goal Circle. All successful goals from outside the Goal Circle will be worth double i.e. two Goal Points. The umpire will signal a successful Goal by raising one hand for one Goal Point and two hands for two Goal Points (In a Power Play this could result in 1 Goal scoring 2 Goal Points or 4 Goal Points)
• All stoppages for injury or illness will be 30 seconds
Peter Mearns, Executive Director of Marketing and Communications at the NWDA said: “England’s Northwest is quite rightly regarded as one of the world’s greatest sporting regions. Manchester in particular has been able to prove time and time again that it can successfully host a whole manner of major sporting events that contribute to the development of the region’s image and its tourism potential.
”Today’s launch event has successfully highlighted a sport that is accessible for all and I look forward to October when the Series will be contested across the city.”
Councillor Mike Amesbury, Executive Member for Culture and Leisure at Manchester City Council, said: “Manchester, as the home to the international federation IFNA, is delighted to be hosting this world class event and to be welcoming the very best netball nations to the city. We are committed to making the World Netball Series a huge success whilst ensuring that our residents and communities benefit from the opportunities that this event will create.”
Outcome of Fetu’u Vainikolo misconduct hearing
Highlanders player Fetu’u Vainikolo has met with New Zealand Rugby Union and Highlanders officials today following his involvement in an incident in Dunedin over the weekend.
A member of the public complained to the Highlanders about Vainikolo’s behaviour at a Dunedin bar early on Saturday morning (14 February) in which he threw a drink over a woman.
Vainikolo met with NZRU General Manager Professional Rugby Neil Sorensen and Highlanders team manager Greg O’Brien today.
Mr Sorensen said, after considering the facts and circumstances of Vainikolo’s conduct, the incident was deemed to be serious misconduct under the player’s Collective Employment Agreement.
As a result, Vainikolo has received the following sanctions:
· he has been fined $1000;
· he will have to undertake appropriate counselling for alcohol and behaviour management; and
· he has received a formal warning about future similar misconduct.
Furthermore, the Highlanders team management has decided to suspend Vainikolo for one match because his behaviour breached Highlanders team protocols. This means he will miss tomorrow’s match against the Hurricanes.
Mr Sorensen said Vainikolo has already met the woman involved in the incident and her family, apologised for his behaviour and the family had accepted his apology.
A member of the public complained to the Highlanders about Vainikolo’s behaviour at a Dunedin bar early on Saturday morning (14 February) in which he threw a drink over a woman.
Vainikolo met with NZRU General Manager Professional Rugby Neil Sorensen and Highlanders team manager Greg O’Brien today.
Mr Sorensen said, after considering the facts and circumstances of Vainikolo’s conduct, the incident was deemed to be serious misconduct under the player’s Collective Employment Agreement.
As a result, Vainikolo has received the following sanctions:
· he has been fined $1000;
· he will have to undertake appropriate counselling for alcohol and behaviour management; and
· he has received a formal warning about future similar misconduct.
Furthermore, the Highlanders team management has decided to suspend Vainikolo for one match because his behaviour breached Highlanders team protocols. This means he will miss tomorrow’s match against the Hurricanes.
Mr Sorensen said Vainikolo has already met the woman involved in the incident and her family, apologised for his behaviour and the family had accepted his apology.
DEBUT OUTINGS IN STORE FOR TWO NEW VODAFONE WARRIORS PLAYERS
Newcomers Lewis Brown and Ukuma Ta’ai are set to play for the Vodafone Warriors for the first time in Sunday’s NRL trial against the North Queensland Cowboys at North Harbour Stadium.
Christchurch-born Brown (22), signed from Wests Tigers, comes into the squad after missing last Thursday trial against Melbourne with a hand injury.
Mt Albert second rower Ta’ai, also 22, linked up with the club last season and was also on the injured list last week.
They’re included in a 23-man squad coach Ivan Cleary has named for the second of the club’s three NRL trials.
While captain Steve Price, centres Brent Tate and Jerome Ropati, halfback Nathan Fien and second rower Simon Mannering have been named for their first run in the trials programme, several other front-liners will back up after appearing in last Thursday night’s 24-12 win over Melbourne in Hamilton.
Among them are fullback Wade McKinnon, wingers Manu Vatuvei and Denan Kemp, standoff Joel Moon, halfback Stacey Jones, hooker Ian Henderson and utility Lance Hohaia.
Also named again are Aidan Kirk, Patrick Ah Van, Malo Solomona, Russell Packer, Leeson Ah Mau, Mataupu Poching, Epalahame Lauaki, Elijah Taylor and Daniel O’Regan.
“We did a lot of good things against Melbourne, especially on defence, but we need improvement in quite a few areas still,” said Cleary.
“The Cowboys have brought a strong squad with them and they’ll give us a really tough test. That’s just what any side needs at this time of year to get ready for the season ahead.”
Not being used this week are prop Sam Rapira and back rowers Micheal Luck and Ben Matulino, who all had game time in Hamilton.
Only two players remain on the injured list, Evarn Tuimavave with a neck complaint and new back rower Jacob Lillyman, who’s continuing to work his way back from off-season shoulder surgery. Lillyman will be considered for the final trial against Gold Coast in Lismore on February 28.
Six NRL squad members will play in Sunday’s curtain-raiser, which acts as a trial for both the Vodafone Junior Warriors for their NYC season and also for the Auckland Vulcans as they prepare for the New South Wales Cup.
Fullback Kevin Locke, still eligible for the NYC this year, will again run with the Vodafone Junior Warriors while Liam Foran, Aaron Heremaia, Isaac John and Herman Retzlaff will line up for the Vulcans along with Michael Witt who has been cleared after missing the Hamilton trial with a quadriceps injury.
The NRL trial against North Queensland kicks off at 4.00pm – Ashley Klein and Alan Shortall as the dual referees – while the Vodafone Junior Warriors v Vulcans match starts at 2.15pm. In their first two preseason games the NYC side has beaten Waikato 38-6 and Hawke’s Bay 74-4.
The Vodafone Warriors have a short turnaround for their third trial, travelling to Australia to take on the Gold Coast Titans in Lismore six days later (Saturday, February 28). It’s the same for the Vodafone Junior Warriors who will play their only all-NYC preseason game when they face their Gold Coast counterparts in one of the curtain-raisers.
VODAFONE WARRIORS v NORTH QUEENSLAND COWBOYS
North Harbour Stadium, Albany
4.00pm, Sunday, February 22
Referees: Ashley Klein & Alan Shortall
VODAFONE WARRIORS
WADE McKINNON
DENAN KEMP
MANU VATUVEI
MALO SOLOMONA
AIDAN KIRK
BRENT TATE
JEROME ROPATI
PATRICK AH VAN
JOEL MOON
NATHAN FIEN
STACEY JONES
STEVE PRICE (c)
RUSSELL PACKER
LEESON AH MAU
MATAUPU POCHING
IAN HENDERSON
LEWIS BROWN
LANCE HOHAIA
UKUMA TA’AI
SIMON MANNERING
EPALAHAME LAUAKI
ELIJAH TAYLOR
DANIEL O’REGAN
COACH: IVAN CLEARY
Christchurch-born Brown (22), signed from Wests Tigers, comes into the squad after missing last Thursday trial against Melbourne with a hand injury.
Mt Albert second rower Ta’ai, also 22, linked up with the club last season and was also on the injured list last week.
They’re included in a 23-man squad coach Ivan Cleary has named for the second of the club’s three NRL trials.
While captain Steve Price, centres Brent Tate and Jerome Ropati, halfback Nathan Fien and second rower Simon Mannering have been named for their first run in the trials programme, several other front-liners will back up after appearing in last Thursday night’s 24-12 win over Melbourne in Hamilton.
Among them are fullback Wade McKinnon, wingers Manu Vatuvei and Denan Kemp, standoff Joel Moon, halfback Stacey Jones, hooker Ian Henderson and utility Lance Hohaia.
Also named again are Aidan Kirk, Patrick Ah Van, Malo Solomona, Russell Packer, Leeson Ah Mau, Mataupu Poching, Epalahame Lauaki, Elijah Taylor and Daniel O’Regan.
“We did a lot of good things against Melbourne, especially on defence, but we need improvement in quite a few areas still,” said Cleary.
“The Cowboys have brought a strong squad with them and they’ll give us a really tough test. That’s just what any side needs at this time of year to get ready for the season ahead.”
Not being used this week are prop Sam Rapira and back rowers Micheal Luck and Ben Matulino, who all had game time in Hamilton.
Only two players remain on the injured list, Evarn Tuimavave with a neck complaint and new back rower Jacob Lillyman, who’s continuing to work his way back from off-season shoulder surgery. Lillyman will be considered for the final trial against Gold Coast in Lismore on February 28.
Six NRL squad members will play in Sunday’s curtain-raiser, which acts as a trial for both the Vodafone Junior Warriors for their NYC season and also for the Auckland Vulcans as they prepare for the New South Wales Cup.
Fullback Kevin Locke, still eligible for the NYC this year, will again run with the Vodafone Junior Warriors while Liam Foran, Aaron Heremaia, Isaac John and Herman Retzlaff will line up for the Vulcans along with Michael Witt who has been cleared after missing the Hamilton trial with a quadriceps injury.
The NRL trial against North Queensland kicks off at 4.00pm – Ashley Klein and Alan Shortall as the dual referees – while the Vodafone Junior Warriors v Vulcans match starts at 2.15pm. In their first two preseason games the NYC side has beaten Waikato 38-6 and Hawke’s Bay 74-4.
The Vodafone Warriors have a short turnaround for their third trial, travelling to Australia to take on the Gold Coast Titans in Lismore six days later (Saturday, February 28). It’s the same for the Vodafone Junior Warriors who will play their only all-NYC preseason game when they face their Gold Coast counterparts in one of the curtain-raisers.
VODAFONE WARRIORS v NORTH QUEENSLAND COWBOYS
North Harbour Stadium, Albany
4.00pm, Sunday, February 22
Referees: Ashley Klein & Alan Shortall
VODAFONE WARRIORS
WADE McKINNON
DENAN KEMP
MANU VATUVEI
MALO SOLOMONA
AIDAN KIRK
BRENT TATE
JEROME ROPATI
PATRICK AH VAN
JOEL MOON
NATHAN FIEN
STACEY JONES
STEVE PRICE (c)
RUSSELL PACKER
LEESON AH MAU
MATAUPU POCHING
IAN HENDERSON
LEWIS BROWN
LANCE HOHAIA
UKUMA TA’AI
SIMON MANNERING
EPALAHAME LAUAKI
ELIJAH TAYLOR
DANIEL O’REGAN
COACH: IVAN CLEARY
New Zealand Sevens training squad named for 2009 Rugby World Cup Sevens
New Zealand Sevens Coach Gordon Tietjens today named a 17-man squad which will assemble in Mount Maunganui later this month to prepare for the Rugby World Cup (RWC) Sevens.
The squad features 14 members of the current national Sevens squad, Ben Souness who has joined the squad, and two additional Rebel Sport Super 14 players who are in contention for the RWC Sevens tournament.
The Rebel Sport Super 14 players are the Hurricanes’ Victor Vito and the Chiefs’ Sosene Anesi.
Gordon Tietjens said while hampered by the recent injuries to his national squad, he was hopeful that those players selected would focus quickly on the Rugby World Cup opportunity.
Tietjens said he was happy with the support from the Rebel Sport Super 14 players and coaching staff.
“For this year’s Tournament, we took the approach of asking players to advise their interest in being considered for the Rugby World Cup Sevens. We then spoke to all the coaches about those players and how selection for the Sevens might fit within the Super 14 season.”
Tietjens said the preference was on those players who had played Sevens rugby, particularly in the New Zealand Sevens team setup.
“Both players have played in the New Zealand team previously so that is a plus.”
“Give our run of injuries, I am looking forward to working with this training squad to set up for and finalise the Rugby World Cup squad.”
The training camp will take place at Mount Maunganui on February 22-24.
The squad will be narrowed down to a Tournament squad of 12 for the RWC Sevens and will be announced at the conclusion of the camp. The Tournament takes place in Dubai from March 5-7.
New Zealand Sevens RWC training camp squad: Sosene Anesi (Waikato), Tomasi Cama (Manawatu), DJ Forbes (Captain, Counties Manukau), Paul Grant (Otago), Nigel Hunt (Bay of Plenty), Zar Lawrence (Bay of Plenty), Tim Nanai Williams (Counties Manukau), Lote Raikabula (Manawatu), Willie Rickards (Southland), Julian Savea (Wellington), Ben Souness (Taranaki), Save Tokula (Waikato), Chad Tuoro (Counties Manukau), Nafi Tuitavake (North Harbour), Tu Umaga Marshall (Wellington), Victor Vito (Wellington), Viliame Waqaseduadua (North Harbour).
Note: Edwin Cocker (broken leg), Solomon King (wrist), and Tim Mikkelson (shoulder) were not considered for selection due to injury.
The squad features 14 members of the current national Sevens squad, Ben Souness who has joined the squad, and two additional Rebel Sport Super 14 players who are in contention for the RWC Sevens tournament.
The Rebel Sport Super 14 players are the Hurricanes’ Victor Vito and the Chiefs’ Sosene Anesi.
Gordon Tietjens said while hampered by the recent injuries to his national squad, he was hopeful that those players selected would focus quickly on the Rugby World Cup opportunity.
Tietjens said he was happy with the support from the Rebel Sport Super 14 players and coaching staff.
“For this year’s Tournament, we took the approach of asking players to advise their interest in being considered for the Rugby World Cup Sevens. We then spoke to all the coaches about those players and how selection for the Sevens might fit within the Super 14 season.”
Tietjens said the preference was on those players who had played Sevens rugby, particularly in the New Zealand Sevens team setup.
“Both players have played in the New Zealand team previously so that is a plus.”
“Give our run of injuries, I am looking forward to working with this training squad to set up for and finalise the Rugby World Cup squad.”
The training camp will take place at Mount Maunganui on February 22-24.
The squad will be narrowed down to a Tournament squad of 12 for the RWC Sevens and will be announced at the conclusion of the camp. The Tournament takes place in Dubai from March 5-7.
New Zealand Sevens RWC training camp squad: Sosene Anesi (Waikato), Tomasi Cama (Manawatu), DJ Forbes (Captain, Counties Manukau), Paul Grant (Otago), Nigel Hunt (Bay of Plenty), Zar Lawrence (Bay of Plenty), Tim Nanai Williams (Counties Manukau), Lote Raikabula (Manawatu), Willie Rickards (Southland), Julian Savea (Wellington), Ben Souness (Taranaki), Save Tokula (Waikato), Chad Tuoro (Counties Manukau), Nafi Tuitavake (North Harbour), Tu Umaga Marshall (Wellington), Victor Vito (Wellington), Viliame Waqaseduadua (North Harbour).
Note: Edwin Cocker (broken leg), Solomon King (wrist), and Tim Mikkelson (shoulder) were not considered for selection due to injury.
UPDATED Match official appointments for Rebel Sport Super 14 weeks 1 & 4
Media are advised that due to referee Keith Brown’s injury there is a change to the Hurricanes v Highlanders match tomorrow night.
· Vinnie Munro replaces now Keith Brown as referee for the match.
· Ben Skeen and Garrett Williamson (reserve referee) will be assistant referees and Keith Brown will be the TV match official.
· Vinnie Munro replaces now Keith Brown as referee for the match.
· Ben Skeen and Garrett Williamson (reserve referee) will be assistant referees and Keith Brown will be the TV match official.
Toyota NRL Dream Team competition
With coaches announcing their sides for the first official round of trials for 2009, NRL fans have been given their chance to pick their own ultimate Rugby League team.
The NRL’s official website, nrl.com, has opened registrations for the Toyota NRL Dream Team 2009 competition, the game’s official ‘fantasy league’.
More than $73,000 in prizes are on offer with the choice of a Toyota car pack the major prize.
Fans can choose from the Isaac Luke and Kurt Gidley-like versatility that comes with the Toyota Yaris and Corolla duo, or the Luke Bailey toughness of the Hilux.
Alternatively, fans can choose the blistering Brett Stewart-style pace of the Aurion V6, or the all-round Nathan Hindmarsh-like machine – the Rav 4.
There will also be weekly cash prizes of $750 and a randomly selected weekly $250 bonus for a lucky team coach.
An additional eliminator series will operate from Round 12 allowing 32,000 teams the chance to play against each other in a league of champions with an additional $1000 cash prize to the winner.
The Toyota NRL Dream Team competition will give fans full access to the game’s official statistics on nrl.com while BigPond TV will broadcast team announcements every Tuesday through NRL club websites.
There are bonus prizes for fans who register before March 3, including the chance to win 12 general access tickets to the Telstra Premiership and a cash prize of $1000.
To register, just log on to www.nrl.com.
The NRL’s official website, nrl.com, has opened registrations for the Toyota NRL Dream Team 2009 competition, the game’s official ‘fantasy league’.
More than $73,000 in prizes are on offer with the choice of a Toyota car pack the major prize.
Fans can choose from the Isaac Luke and Kurt Gidley-like versatility that comes with the Toyota Yaris and Corolla duo, or the Luke Bailey toughness of the Hilux.
Alternatively, fans can choose the blistering Brett Stewart-style pace of the Aurion V6, or the all-round Nathan Hindmarsh-like machine – the Rav 4.
There will also be weekly cash prizes of $750 and a randomly selected weekly $250 bonus for a lucky team coach.
An additional eliminator series will operate from Round 12 allowing 32,000 teams the chance to play against each other in a league of champions with an additional $1000 cash prize to the winner.
The Toyota NRL Dream Team competition will give fans full access to the game’s official statistics on nrl.com while BigPond TV will broadcast team announcements every Tuesday through NRL club websites.
There are bonus prizes for fans who register before March 3, including the chance to win 12 general access tickets to the Telstra Premiership and a cash prize of $1000.
To register, just log on to www.nrl.com.
Change to playing times for Wellington State Twenty20 tomorrow
New Zealand Cricket has advised a change in the playing times for tomorrow's State Twenty20 game between the State Wellington Firebirds and State Central Stags at the Allied Nationwide Finance Basin Reserve, Wellington.
Start time for the game has been brought forward 15 minutes from 5.15pm to 5.00pm. The interval between innings has been reduced from 20 minutes to 10 minutes. The expected finish time for the game will be approximately 7.50pm.
The change was agreed by the Wellington and Central Districts Associations, and approved by NZC, in order to maximise playing time during daylight hours before light conditions become marginal.
Start time for the game has been brought forward 15 minutes from 5.15pm to 5.00pm. The interval between innings has been reduced from 20 minutes to 10 minutes. The expected finish time for the game will be approximately 7.50pm.
The change was agreed by the Wellington and Central Districts Associations, and approved by NZC, in order to maximise playing time during daylight hours before light conditions become marginal.
NZRU remains hopeful of NZ Maori – Springboks match
The New Zealand Rugby Union remains hopeful that a match against the Springboks will take place this year, NZRU General Manager Professional Rugby Neil Sorensen said today.
Mr Sorensen said a number of discussions on the possibility of a NZ Maori – Springboks match had been held with SA Rugby acting managing director Andy Marinos and supported by Springboks coach Peter de Villiers.
“As we said in December, we have been working very hard to try and arrange a fixture for the New Zealand Maori team for this year and the Springboks match is the one we are currently pursuing.
“Obviously, it would be fantastic for New Zealand Maori, the Springboks and their respective fans if the match took place but it is still early days and we know that there are a number of hurdles that need to be cleared if the match is to be confirmed.”
Mr Sorensen said the SA Rugby President’s Council resolution which reportedly forbids SA Rugby teams playing against teams selected along racial lines had not come up so far in the discussions between the NZRU and SA Rugby.
“That is obviously just one of the many things that SA Rugby will need to discuss internally but we obviously hope that the match will take place and will hold further talks with SA Rugby over the coming weeks.”
New Zealand Maori last toured South Africa in 1994, playing four matches against Vaal Triangle, Free State, Griqualand West and Eastern Province.
Mr Sorensen said a number of discussions on the possibility of a NZ Maori – Springboks match had been held with SA Rugby acting managing director Andy Marinos and supported by Springboks coach Peter de Villiers.
“As we said in December, we have been working very hard to try and arrange a fixture for the New Zealand Maori team for this year and the Springboks match is the one we are currently pursuing.
“Obviously, it would be fantastic for New Zealand Maori, the Springboks and their respective fans if the match took place but it is still early days and we know that there are a number of hurdles that need to be cleared if the match is to be confirmed.”
Mr Sorensen said the SA Rugby President’s Council resolution which reportedly forbids SA Rugby teams playing against teams selected along racial lines had not come up so far in the discussions between the NZRU and SA Rugby.
“That is obviously just one of the many things that SA Rugby will need to discuss internally but we obviously hope that the match will take place and will hold further talks with SA Rugby over the coming weeks.”
New Zealand Maori last toured South Africa in 1994, playing four matches against Vaal Triangle, Free State, Griqualand West and Eastern Province.
NRL referee appointments
GAME: Melbourne Storm v Newcastle Knights DATE: Saturday 21st February
Venue: Princes Park Kick Off: 6pm
Referee: Ben Cummins & Chris James
Sideline Officials: *
GAME: Canberra Raiders v Brisbane Broncos DATE: Saturday 21st February
Venue: Redcliffe Kick Off: 7.15pm
Referee: Matt Cecchin & Steve Lyons
Sideline Officials: *
GAME: St George Illawarra Dragons v Bulldogs DATE: Saturday 21st February
Venue: WIN Stadium Kick Off: 7pm
Referee: Tony De Las Heras & Gerard Sutton
Sideline Officials: Steve Carrall & Peter Kirby
GAME: Penrith Panthers v Parramatta Eels DATE: Saturday 21st February
Venue: CUA Stadium Kick Off: 8pm
Referee: Jared Maxwell & Adam Devcich
Sideline Officials: Russell Turner & Mohamad Fajajo
GAME: Gold Coast Titans v Cronulla Sharks DATE: Saturday 21st February
Venue: Richardson Park, Darwin Kick Off: 7.30pm
Referee: Gavin Badger & Brett Suttor
Sideline Officials: *
GAME: Wests Tigers v Sydney Roosters DATE: Saturday 21st February
Venue: Sydney Football Stadium Kick Off: 7.30pm
Referee: Tony Archer & Phil Haines
Sideline Officials: Steve Chiddy & Luke Potter
GAME: New Zealand Warriors v Nth Queensland Cowboys DATE: Sunday 22nd February
Venue: North Harbour Stadium, Albany Kick Off: 4pm
Referee: Alan Shortall & Ashley Klein
Sideline Officials: *
*Please note that local sideline officials will be used at non-Sydney venues.
Venue: Princes Park Kick Off: 6pm
Referee: Ben Cummins & Chris James
Sideline Officials: *
GAME: Canberra Raiders v Brisbane Broncos DATE: Saturday 21st February
Venue: Redcliffe Kick Off: 7.15pm
Referee: Matt Cecchin & Steve Lyons
Sideline Officials: *
GAME: St George Illawarra Dragons v Bulldogs DATE: Saturday 21st February
Venue: WIN Stadium Kick Off: 7pm
Referee: Tony De Las Heras & Gerard Sutton
Sideline Officials: Steve Carrall & Peter Kirby
GAME: Penrith Panthers v Parramatta Eels DATE: Saturday 21st February
Venue: CUA Stadium Kick Off: 8pm
Referee: Jared Maxwell & Adam Devcich
Sideline Officials: Russell Turner & Mohamad Fajajo
GAME: Gold Coast Titans v Cronulla Sharks DATE: Saturday 21st February
Venue: Richardson Park, Darwin Kick Off: 7.30pm
Referee: Gavin Badger & Brett Suttor
Sideline Officials: *
GAME: Wests Tigers v Sydney Roosters DATE: Saturday 21st February
Venue: Sydney Football Stadium Kick Off: 7.30pm
Referee: Tony Archer & Phil Haines
Sideline Officials: Steve Chiddy & Luke Potter
GAME: New Zealand Warriors v Nth Queensland Cowboys DATE: Sunday 22nd February
Venue: North Harbour Stadium, Albany Kick Off: 4pm
Referee: Alan Shortall & Ashley Klein
Sideline Officials: *
*Please note that local sideline officials will be used at non-Sydney venues.
Crusaders team to play Brumbies in Canberra on Saturday night
McCaw, Thorn and MacDonald unavailable
The Crusaders will be without three experienced players – captain Richie McCaw, Brad Thorn and Leon MacDonald - for Saturday night’s match against the Brumbies in Canberra.
Flanker McCaw suffered a head knock in the round-one victory over the Chiefs last week and although he has improved significantly, according to concussion protocols he has not recovered sufficiently to play on Saturday.
Lock Thorn left AMI Stadium last week with a plantar fascia (heel) injury and will not play, while fullback MacDonald also went off early against the Chiefs with an A/C joint (shoulder) injury.
George Whitelock will play in the number seven jersey, with Isaac Ross coming in for Thorn and Stephen Brett for MacDonald.
Flanker Kieran Read will captain the side.
Crusaders head coach Todd Bladder said McCaw was close to being available but was not quite 100 per cent.
“He has been following our concussion protocols this week and we’ve been monitoring him closely but the Crusaders management, along with Richie, have decided that he won’t play this week,” Blackadder said.
It was too early to say how long Thorn and MacDonald would be out for, he added.
Blackadder was confident the injured players’ replacements would step up against the Brumbies.
“George, Isaac and Stephen are quality players and this is a great opportunity for them,” he said. “You can never go through this competition without picking up injuries and, although having three experienced players out at the same time is unfortunate, I’m sure these young guys will make their presence felt.”
Loose forward Nasi Manu and back Ryan Crotty come on to the reserves bench.
The Crusaders team to play the Brumbies at 7.40pm on Saturday, February 21 at Canberra Stadium, Canberra, is as follows:
1. Wyatt Crockett 12. Tim Bateman
2. Corey Flynn 13. Casey Laulala
3. Ben Franks 14. Jared Payne
4. Isaac Ross 15. Stephen Brett
5. Ross Filipo 16. Jason Macdonald
6. Kieran Read (Capt) 17. Bronson Murray
7. George Whitelock 18. Michael Paterson
8. Thomas Waldrom 19. Nasi Manu
9. Andy Ellis 20. Kahn Fotuali’i
10. Colin Slade 21. Ryan Crotty
11. Kade Poki 22. Adam Whitelock
The Crusaders will be without three experienced players – captain Richie McCaw, Brad Thorn and Leon MacDonald - for Saturday night’s match against the Brumbies in Canberra.
Flanker McCaw suffered a head knock in the round-one victory over the Chiefs last week and although he has improved significantly, according to concussion protocols he has not recovered sufficiently to play on Saturday.
Lock Thorn left AMI Stadium last week with a plantar fascia (heel) injury and will not play, while fullback MacDonald also went off early against the Chiefs with an A/C joint (shoulder) injury.
George Whitelock will play in the number seven jersey, with Isaac Ross coming in for Thorn and Stephen Brett for MacDonald.
Flanker Kieran Read will captain the side.
Crusaders head coach Todd Bladder said McCaw was close to being available but was not quite 100 per cent.
“He has been following our concussion protocols this week and we’ve been monitoring him closely but the Crusaders management, along with Richie, have decided that he won’t play this week,” Blackadder said.
It was too early to say how long Thorn and MacDonald would be out for, he added.
Blackadder was confident the injured players’ replacements would step up against the Brumbies.
“George, Isaac and Stephen are quality players and this is a great opportunity for them,” he said. “You can never go through this competition without picking up injuries and, although having three experienced players out at the same time is unfortunate, I’m sure these young guys will make their presence felt.”
Loose forward Nasi Manu and back Ryan Crotty come on to the reserves bench.
The Crusaders team to play the Brumbies at 7.40pm on Saturday, February 21 at Canberra Stadium, Canberra, is as follows:
1. Wyatt Crockett 12. Tim Bateman
2. Corey Flynn 13. Casey Laulala
3. Ben Franks 14. Jared Payne
4. Isaac Ross 15. Stephen Brett
5. Ross Filipo 16. Jason Macdonald
6. Kieran Read (Capt) 17. Bronson Murray
7. George Whitelock 18. Michael Paterson
8. Thomas Waldrom 19. Nasi Manu
9. Andy Ellis 20. Kahn Fotuali’i
10. Colin Slade 21. Ryan Crotty
11. Kade Poki 22. Adam Whitelock
Air New Zealand Cup schedule for 2009 released
An opening weekend Ranfurly Shield defence for Wellington and a number of afternoon local derby matches are among the highlights of the 2009 Air New Zealand Cup, following the announcement of the competition schedule.
The Air New Zealand Cup kicks off on Thursday 30 July and will play over 15 weeks, with the final on Saturday 7 November. It will be a full round robin format with all teams playing each other and hosting either six or seven home matches.
One feature of the competition is the scheduling of a number of “derby” games in the afternoon to give travelling fans time to get to and from the games. These include Northland v Auckland (round 3), Bay of Plenty v Waikato (round 4), Canterbury v Otago (round 7), Auckland v North Harbour (round 8) and Auckland v Counties Manukau (round 12).
Many of the key provincial match-ups will be played on the traditional Saturday night, including Auckland v Canterbury (round 2), Wellington v Auckland (round 4) Wellington v Canterbury (round 5), Waikato v Hawke’s Bay (round 6) and Auckland v Waikato (round 13).
The “holy grail” of New Zealand domestic rugby, the Ranfurly Shield, will go on the line when Wellington hosts Otago in week one. If Wellington wins that match, it will then face strong challenges from Canterbury and Auckland in rounds 4 and 5.
Meanwhile, some Air New Zealand Cup matches played on the same day as All Blacks Tests in New Zealand and Australia (22 August, 12 September and 19 September) have been brought forward so that rugby fans across New Zealand will have the opportunity to take in both the provincial and Test matches.
For a copy of the schedule, email gayle@sport-unleashed.com
The Air New Zealand Cup kicks off on Thursday 30 July and will play over 15 weeks, with the final on Saturday 7 November. It will be a full round robin format with all teams playing each other and hosting either six or seven home matches.
One feature of the competition is the scheduling of a number of “derby” games in the afternoon to give travelling fans time to get to and from the games. These include Northland v Auckland (round 3), Bay of Plenty v Waikato (round 4), Canterbury v Otago (round 7), Auckland v North Harbour (round 8) and Auckland v Counties Manukau (round 12).
Many of the key provincial match-ups will be played on the traditional Saturday night, including Auckland v Canterbury (round 2), Wellington v Auckland (round 4) Wellington v Canterbury (round 5), Waikato v Hawke’s Bay (round 6) and Auckland v Waikato (round 13).
The “holy grail” of New Zealand domestic rugby, the Ranfurly Shield, will go on the line when Wellington hosts Otago in week one. If Wellington wins that match, it will then face strong challenges from Canterbury and Auckland in rounds 4 and 5.
Meanwhile, some Air New Zealand Cup matches played on the same day as All Blacks Tests in New Zealand and Australia (22 August, 12 September and 19 September) have been brought forward so that rugby fans across New Zealand will have the opportunity to take in both the provincial and Test matches.
For a copy of the schedule, email gayle@sport-unleashed.com
Josh Blackie to start for the Blues
Blues team to play Bulls
Pretoria
Sunday morning 4am NZT
Rebel Sport Super 14 - Rd 2
Pat Lam has made a number of changes to the Blues line-up ahead of Saturday’s match against the Bulls, with Josh Blackie starting at flanker as well as several players making either their Blues or Rebel Sport Super 14 debuts.
A shuffled backline sees Isaia Toeava starting at fullback with Rene Ranger and Paul Williams on the wings, while Anthony Tuitavake gets an opportunity at centre along with Jamie Helleur.
Captain Keven Mealamu is being given more time to prove his fitness following a calf strain and has been bracketed with Tom McCartney, and Tevita Mailau will face a baptism of fire against the Bulls front row in his Rebel Sport Super 14 debut after replacing Tony Woodcock at prop.
Earning his second cap for the Blues since making one appearance as a draft player in 2002, Lam said Josh Blackie was raring to go.
“Josh is an experienced player and he’s been at this level many times,” Lam said.
“He certainly looks like a youngster, he’s nervous and excited to go and coming into a team that’s new for him he’s fitted in really well and you can certainly see his experience off the field and he’s looking forward to it.”
Please find below the Blues squad members who will take the field during the match:
15 Isaia Toeava
14 Rene Ranger
13 Anthony Tuitavake
12 Jamie Helleur
11 Paul Williams
10 Jimmy Gopperth
9 Chris Smylie
8 Chris Lowrey
7 Josh Blackie
6 Justin Collins
5 Anthony Boric
4 Kurtis Haiu
3 John Afoa
2 Keven Mealamu / Tom McCartney
1 Tevita Mailau
16 Tom McCartney / Francis Smith
17 Tony Woodcock
18 Dean Budd
19 Onosa’i Auva'a
20 Grayson Hart
21 Michael Hobbs
22 Winston Stanley
Unavailable due to injury – Ali Williams, Jay Williams, Benson Stanley, Rudi Wulf
Paternity leave – Joe Rokocoko
Jerome Kaino and Taniela Moa will fly to Pretoria on Saturday to be with the team to watch the match, before flying to Cape Town to resume training ahead of the Stormers game.
Pretoria
Sunday morning 4am NZT
Rebel Sport Super 14 - Rd 2
Pat Lam has made a number of changes to the Blues line-up ahead of Saturday’s match against the Bulls, with Josh Blackie starting at flanker as well as several players making either their Blues or Rebel Sport Super 14 debuts.
A shuffled backline sees Isaia Toeava starting at fullback with Rene Ranger and Paul Williams on the wings, while Anthony Tuitavake gets an opportunity at centre along with Jamie Helleur.
Captain Keven Mealamu is being given more time to prove his fitness following a calf strain and has been bracketed with Tom McCartney, and Tevita Mailau will face a baptism of fire against the Bulls front row in his Rebel Sport Super 14 debut after replacing Tony Woodcock at prop.
Earning his second cap for the Blues since making one appearance as a draft player in 2002, Lam said Josh Blackie was raring to go.
“Josh is an experienced player and he’s been at this level many times,” Lam said.
“He certainly looks like a youngster, he’s nervous and excited to go and coming into a team that’s new for him he’s fitted in really well and you can certainly see his experience off the field and he’s looking forward to it.”
Please find below the Blues squad members who will take the field during the match:
15 Isaia Toeava
14 Rene Ranger
13 Anthony Tuitavake
12 Jamie Helleur
11 Paul Williams
10 Jimmy Gopperth
9 Chris Smylie
8 Chris Lowrey
7 Josh Blackie
6 Justin Collins
5 Anthony Boric
4 Kurtis Haiu
3 John Afoa
2 Keven Mealamu / Tom McCartney
1 Tevita Mailau
16 Tom McCartney / Francis Smith
17 Tony Woodcock
18 Dean Budd
19 Onosa’i Auva'a
20 Grayson Hart
21 Michael Hobbs
22 Winston Stanley
Unavailable due to injury – Ali Williams, Jay Williams, Benson Stanley, Rudi Wulf
Paternity leave – Joe Rokocoko
Jerome Kaino and Taniela Moa will fly to Pretoria on Saturday to be with the team to watch the match, before flying to Cape Town to resume training ahead of the Stormers game.
New Zealand Davis Cup team announced for tie against Malaysia
The Greymouth Petroleum NZ Davis Cup Team has been announced for the tie against Malaysia, at Albany Tennis Park, North Shore City 6-8 March.
The team is Rubin Statham, Dan King-Turner, GD Jones and Adam Thompson, with James Greenhalgh as Captain.
This is the same team that contested an epic tie against China in the final of the Asia/Oceania Group II competition, in Taranaki in September 2008.
For the March tie, the first in the 2009 Davis Cup competition for New Zealand, Oliver Statham and Marcus Daniell challenged for places in the team but could not quite force out any of the four that played last September.
The Davis Cup tie against Malaysia will be played indoors at the Albany Tennis Park, and is part of a month-long International Festival of Tennis in North Shore City.
The festival includes the Come Play! Open Day (which happened last weekend), the North Shore City Beach Tennis Bash! (28 February – 1 March on Takapuna Beach), the Davis Cup tie NZ vs Malaysia, and the first of the ASB Pro Circuit Tournaments, which begins directly after the Davis Cup at Albany Tennis Park ( 9 – 15 March).
The ASB Pro Circuit, which attracts an international field of emerging tennis professionals – the stars of the future - then moves onto tournaments in Hamilton (16 - 22 March) and Wellington (23 – 29 March).
In the Davis Cup in 2009, New Zealand will be playing in the Group that includes Hong Kong, Indonesia, Kuwait, Oman, Pakistan, Malaysia, and the Philippines.
A win in this group would see New Zealand promoted to Asia/Oceania Group I, the level at which Australia is currently playing.
The team is Rubin Statham, Dan King-Turner, GD Jones and Adam Thompson, with James Greenhalgh as Captain.
This is the same team that contested an epic tie against China in the final of the Asia/Oceania Group II competition, in Taranaki in September 2008.
For the March tie, the first in the 2009 Davis Cup competition for New Zealand, Oliver Statham and Marcus Daniell challenged for places in the team but could not quite force out any of the four that played last September.
The Davis Cup tie against Malaysia will be played indoors at the Albany Tennis Park, and is part of a month-long International Festival of Tennis in North Shore City.
The festival includes the Come Play! Open Day (which happened last weekend), the North Shore City Beach Tennis Bash! (28 February – 1 March on Takapuna Beach), the Davis Cup tie NZ vs Malaysia, and the first of the ASB Pro Circuit Tournaments, which begins directly after the Davis Cup at Albany Tennis Park ( 9 – 15 March).
The ASB Pro Circuit, which attracts an international field of emerging tennis professionals – the stars of the future - then moves onto tournaments in Hamilton (16 - 22 March) and Wellington (23 – 29 March).
In the Davis Cup in 2009, New Zealand will be playing in the Group that includes Hong Kong, Indonesia, Kuwait, Oman, Pakistan, Malaysia, and the Philippines.
A win in this group would see New Zealand promoted to Asia/Oceania Group I, the level at which Australia is currently playing.
Montenegro Selected To Host 2010 World Parachuting Championships & Junior World Championships
To add to its impressive calendar of events and sporting activities, Montenegro has been confirmed as the 2010 venue for the 31st World Parachuting Championships and the 5th Junior World Parachuting Championships.
The bi-annual Championships in freefall, style and accuracy landing will take place from August 28 to 04 September, 2010. The last championships were held in Slovakia in 2008 and attracted 198 competitors from 28 countries.
The announcement follows a presentation to the International Parachuting Commission and the Fédération of Aeronautique Internationale spearheaded by the Aeronautical Association of Montenegro and supported by the National Tourism Organisation, the Ministry of Sports, Culture and Media, the Olympic Committee of Montenegro and the Municipality of Niksic, the host town for the Championships.
According to Sasa Radovic, Director of Tourism, National Tourism Organisation of Montenegro: “These Championships will provide us with an ideal opportunity to showcase Montenegro as a destination for international events and highlight our long tradition of involvement in aerosports activities, which dates back more than 80-years.”
The bi-annual Championships in freefall, style and accuracy landing will take place from August 28 to 04 September, 2010. The last championships were held in Slovakia in 2008 and attracted 198 competitors from 28 countries.
The announcement follows a presentation to the International Parachuting Commission and the Fédération of Aeronautique Internationale spearheaded by the Aeronautical Association of Montenegro and supported by the National Tourism Organisation, the Ministry of Sports, Culture and Media, the Olympic Committee of Montenegro and the Municipality of Niksic, the host town for the Championships.
According to Sasa Radovic, Director of Tourism, National Tourism Organisation of Montenegro: “These Championships will provide us with an ideal opportunity to showcase Montenegro as a destination for international events and highlight our long tradition of involvement in aerosports activities, which dates back more than 80-years.”
Bridewell on lap record pace in Spain
British rider Tommy Bridewell made his intentions clear by breaking the class lap record at Cartegena when testing for the first time this year aboard the Lorenzini by Leoni Yamaha R1 last week.
The 20-year-old from Devizes in Wiltshire was taking part in a three-day test at the Spanish circuit in readiness for his assault on the FIM 1000 Superstock Cup and Italian Superstock Championship for the Mantova-based team along with team-mates Michele Pirro (Supersport) and Niccolo Rosso who was also on the new R1.
Pirro recorded a time of 1.35.5 on his R6 and Rosso went round in 1:37.5 but Bridewell stopped the clocks with an amazing lap of 1:35.1, just a tenth of a second outside the Superbike lap record around the 3.6km track.
Speaking afterwards, Tommy said: "We had so much to test during the three days, I was hardly ever off the bike and to set my fastest lap when the conditions were not ideal was very satisfying. We tested suspension, tyres and got a good base setting and I have to say, this bike is absolutely fantastic. It's so responsive, fast and it handles really well, I reckon it's going to be the bike to beat this year."
Tommy will run under number 46 this season, his late brother Ollie's traditional race number, and the team is planning another test at Valencia in mid-March before the opening round of the FIM 1000 Superstock Cup at the same track on April 5th.
The 20-year-old from Devizes in Wiltshire was taking part in a three-day test at the Spanish circuit in readiness for his assault on the FIM 1000 Superstock Cup and Italian Superstock Championship for the Mantova-based team along with team-mates Michele Pirro (Supersport) and Niccolo Rosso who was also on the new R1.
Pirro recorded a time of 1.35.5 on his R6 and Rosso went round in 1:37.5 but Bridewell stopped the clocks with an amazing lap of 1:35.1, just a tenth of a second outside the Superbike lap record around the 3.6km track.
Speaking afterwards, Tommy said: "We had so much to test during the three days, I was hardly ever off the bike and to set my fastest lap when the conditions were not ideal was very satisfying. We tested suspension, tyres and got a good base setting and I have to say, this bike is absolutely fantastic. It's so responsive, fast and it handles really well, I reckon it's going to be the bike to beat this year."
Tommy will run under number 46 this season, his late brother Ollie's traditional race number, and the team is planning another test at Valencia in mid-March before the opening round of the FIM 1000 Superstock Cup at the same track on April 5th.
Chris Bell Signs A New Deal
Chris Bell has signed a two year extension to his contract at Sale Sharks following the news that Richard Wigglesworth has also resigned a new deal.
Chris, 26, said “ I am really pleased to have agreed a new deal at the club. I had a good chat with Kingsley after it was announced he was taking over from Philippe and am looking forward to helping the club in their quest for silverware.”
Sale Sharks International Players (Sebastien Chabal, Lionel Faure, Jason White, Dwayne Peel ), returned to Carrington today to train with the rest of the squad in preparation for Friday’s Guinness Premiership home game against Bristol.
Kingsley Jones said, “ The return of these players gives me more selection options for the Bristol game. We need a big performance on Friday to keep our place in the top four.”
Tickets are still available for the Bristol game and can be booked online at www.salesharks.com or by phoning 08444-994-994 (24hours)
Chris, 26, said “ I am really pleased to have agreed a new deal at the club. I had a good chat with Kingsley after it was announced he was taking over from Philippe and am looking forward to helping the club in their quest for silverware.”
Sale Sharks International Players (Sebastien Chabal, Lionel Faure, Jason White, Dwayne Peel ), returned to Carrington today to train with the rest of the squad in preparation for Friday’s Guinness Premiership home game against Bristol.
Kingsley Jones said, “ The return of these players gives me more selection options for the Bristol game. We need a big performance on Friday to keep our place in the top four.”
Tickets are still available for the Bristol game and can be booked online at www.salesharks.com or by phoning 08444-994-994 (24hours)
Trans-Tasman clash of the masters set for Wellington Twenty20
A New Zealand Masters cricket team led by Stephen Fleming will take on their Australian counterparts in a Twenty20 match in Wellington on February 27 as a curtain-raiser to the BLACKCAPS international match against India.
The Masters event - a joint-venture between New Zealand Cricket and the New Zealand Cricket Players Association (NZCPA) - will feature a host of former greats of the game, including Fleming, Dion Nash, Simon Doull, Ian Healy, Darren Lehmann and Greg Blewett.
Both the NZCPA and Australian Cricketers’ Association (ACA) masters teams play regular matches during the course of the season in their respective countries against regional sides and minor and major Associations to help promote the game and its players. However this is the first international fixture for both teams.
One emerging young player from each country will be included in each team. Otago fast bowler, James Fuller, will join the New Zealand team following the recent internal tour with the New Zealand Under 19 team.The trans-Tasman masters match-up will be preceded by a "Master Class Coaching Session" for 100 young Wellingtonions.
"Masters sport is played to a very high standard and with a very strong public following in a range of sports globally," said NZC CEO Justin Vaughan.
"We believe it is a format which has real potential in the future and this inaugural Trans-Tasman match is also an opportunity to add some additional excitement to Wellington's hosting of the international match between the BLACKCAPS and India," he said.
Heath Mills, NZCPA Executive Manager, said the players from both teams were looking forward to renewing old rivalries and suggested that the match-up will have plenty of spice.
"Many of the players have only recently retired from international cricket and they have all maintained good fitness so there will be no shortage of passion and energy. We are confident that this first Masters international between the two countries will be the first of many to come in what will no doubt be another hotly contested Trans-Tasman rivalry” he said.
Mills also expressed thanks to the Wellington City Council and Radio Live for supporting the hosting of the match.
Australian Cricketers’ Association (ACA) Chief Executive Paul Marsh explained that the ACA Masters were looking forward to playing on the international stage.
“The ACA Masters team is made up of past legends of Australian cricket, as well as current players including promising New South Wales youngster Josh Hazlewood,” Paul Marsh said.
“After a thrilling and tightly fought summer of international cricket between our two countries, we look forward to seeing who can finish the summer with bragging rights by taking out the Masters title,” Marsh said.
Teams will include:
Samsung NZCPA Masters
Stephen Fleming (Captain)
Kerry Walmsley
Dion Nash
Matthew Horne
Hamish Marshall
Simon Doull
Bryan Young
Shane Thomson
Andrew Jones
James Fuller (U19)
Paul Wiseman
The Masters event - a joint-venture between New Zealand Cricket and the New Zealand Cricket Players Association (NZCPA) - will feature a host of former greats of the game, including Fleming, Dion Nash, Simon Doull, Ian Healy, Darren Lehmann and Greg Blewett.
Both the NZCPA and Australian Cricketers’ Association (ACA) masters teams play regular matches during the course of the season in their respective countries against regional sides and minor and major Associations to help promote the game and its players. However this is the first international fixture for both teams.
One emerging young player from each country will be included in each team. Otago fast bowler, James Fuller, will join the New Zealand team following the recent internal tour with the New Zealand Under 19 team.The trans-Tasman masters match-up will be preceded by a "Master Class Coaching Session" for 100 young Wellingtonions.
"Masters sport is played to a very high standard and with a very strong public following in a range of sports globally," said NZC CEO Justin Vaughan.
"We believe it is a format which has real potential in the future and this inaugural Trans-Tasman match is also an opportunity to add some additional excitement to Wellington's hosting of the international match between the BLACKCAPS and India," he said.
Heath Mills, NZCPA Executive Manager, said the players from both teams were looking forward to renewing old rivalries and suggested that the match-up will have plenty of spice.
"Many of the players have only recently retired from international cricket and they have all maintained good fitness so there will be no shortage of passion and energy. We are confident that this first Masters international between the two countries will be the first of many to come in what will no doubt be another hotly contested Trans-Tasman rivalry” he said.
Mills also expressed thanks to the Wellington City Council and Radio Live for supporting the hosting of the match.
Australian Cricketers’ Association (ACA) Chief Executive Paul Marsh explained that the ACA Masters were looking forward to playing on the international stage.
“The ACA Masters team is made up of past legends of Australian cricket, as well as current players including promising New South Wales youngster Josh Hazlewood,” Paul Marsh said.
“After a thrilling and tightly fought summer of international cricket between our two countries, we look forward to seeing who can finish the summer with bragging rights by taking out the Masters title,” Marsh said.
Teams will include:
Samsung NZCPA Masters
Stephen Fleming (Captain)
Kerry Walmsley
Dion Nash
Matthew Horne
Hamish Marshall
Simon Doull
Bryan Young
Shane Thomson
Andrew Jones
James Fuller (U19)
Paul Wiseman
2nd Etihad Airways Philippine International Cricket Sixes 2009 tournament
"Asia Pacific teams descend on Clark Field for the
2nd Etihad Airways Philippine International Cricket Sixes 2009"
Number of cricket teams from the Philippines doubles, ICC Regional Development Officer to visit
Sixteen teams from 8 countries in the Asia Pacific region, including China, Korea and the Philippines, will compete at the 2nd annual Etihad Airways Philippine International Cricket Sixes being held at Clark Field this weekend (21-22 February).
The tournament, which contributes to the development of cricket in the Philippines, is co-organised by the Nomad Sports Club and the Asian Cricket Sixes Tour (ACST).
"It's a marvellous turnout from teams around the APAC region, especially in these difficult economic times," said ACST Chairman Michael Maher.
"The first Philippine Sixes last year really was exceptional and the word is definitely out on the ACST circuit that the Philippines is a fantastic place to tour and play cricket," Mr Maher continued.
Chairman of Philippines Cricket, William Bailey said, "We're delighted with the response in only the second year of the Philippine Sixes."
"We're also very pleased to welcome Etihad Airways as headline sponsors of the tournament, they are fantastic partners for the event," continued Mr Bailey.
Number of cricket teams entering tournament from the Philippines doubles, ICC Development Officer to visit
The Philippine Sixes has delivered a boost to cricket in the country with the number of sides from the Philippines entering the tournament doubling from three in 2008 to six this year.
"The Philippines Sixes provides an excellent platform to help drive the development of the cricket in the country," said Mr Bailey. "It's very encouraging to see new teams being created in the Philippines and entering the tournament."
With such thoughts in mind, International Cricket Council Regional Development Officer for the East Asia Pacific region Mr Charlie Burke was invited to see, and will attend, the Philippine Sixes for the first time.
Etihad Airways Philippine International Sixes 2009 Schedule (21 & 22 February)
The tournament gets underway with a Welcome Reception for all the teams, sponsors and officials at the ABC Hotel in Angeles City on Friday night.
The tournament matches will be played on two fields at Clark Parade Ground on Saturday and Sunday.
The Sixes Gala Dinner function will be attended by 200 plus guests will take place at the Holiday Inn Ball Room on Saturday night from 7pm with guest speaker Jack Richards (ex England and Surrey).
The Sixes Awards Ceremony will take place immediately following the final on Sunday afternoon.
Tournament Facts
Event Title: Etihad Airways Philippine International Sixes 2009
Dates: 21 & 22 February 2009
Time: Saturday - 8am to 5pm, Sunday 9am - 5pm
Venue: Parade Ground, Clark Field, Pampanga, Philippines
Competing teams: 16 (see list below)
Functions: 5 (Launch Party, Captains & Officials Meeting, Welcome Reception, Gala Dinner, Awards Ceremony)
Organisers: Nomad Sports Club and the Asian Cricket Sixes Tour
Title Sponsors: Etihad Airways
Website: www.philippinesixes.com
For further information contact:
Michael 'Cat' Maher
Chairman, Asian cricket Sixes Tour
Website: www.cricketsixes.com
Email: cat@cricketsixes.com
William Bailey
Chairman, Philippines Cricket
Email: william.d.bailey@ph.pwc.com
Etihad Airways Philippine International Cricket Sixes 2009
Team Entries
1/ CBB SC's (Australia)
2/ CBB SilverBats (Thailand)
3/ Bounty Bucaneer's (Malaysia)
4/ HKCC Taverners (Hong Kong)
5/ Singapore Misfits (Singapore)
6/ Swagmen Swiggers & Swipers (Philippines)
7/ Gladiators (Korea)
8/ Beijing CC (China)
9/ Manila Nomads (Philippines)
10/ Manila Indians (Philippines)
11/ Manila Roos (Philippines)
12/ Cebu Cricket Club (Philippines)
13/ Craft (Philippines)
14/ Singapore Spirits (Singapore)
15/ Lamma CC (Hong Kong)
16/ Kelawar CC (Malaysia)
2nd Etihad Airways Philippine International Cricket Sixes 2009"
Number of cricket teams from the Philippines doubles, ICC Regional Development Officer to visit
Sixteen teams from 8 countries in the Asia Pacific region, including China, Korea and the Philippines, will compete at the 2nd annual Etihad Airways Philippine International Cricket Sixes being held at Clark Field this weekend (21-22 February).
The tournament, which contributes to the development of cricket in the Philippines, is co-organised by the Nomad Sports Club and the Asian Cricket Sixes Tour (ACST).
"It's a marvellous turnout from teams around the APAC region, especially in these difficult economic times," said ACST Chairman Michael Maher.
"The first Philippine Sixes last year really was exceptional and the word is definitely out on the ACST circuit that the Philippines is a fantastic place to tour and play cricket," Mr Maher continued.
Chairman of Philippines Cricket, William Bailey said, "We're delighted with the response in only the second year of the Philippine Sixes."
"We're also very pleased to welcome Etihad Airways as headline sponsors of the tournament, they are fantastic partners for the event," continued Mr Bailey.
Number of cricket teams entering tournament from the Philippines doubles, ICC Development Officer to visit
The Philippine Sixes has delivered a boost to cricket in the country with the number of sides from the Philippines entering the tournament doubling from three in 2008 to six this year.
"The Philippines Sixes provides an excellent platform to help drive the development of the cricket in the country," said Mr Bailey. "It's very encouraging to see new teams being created in the Philippines and entering the tournament."
With such thoughts in mind, International Cricket Council Regional Development Officer for the East Asia Pacific region Mr Charlie Burke was invited to see, and will attend, the Philippine Sixes for the first time.
Etihad Airways Philippine International Sixes 2009 Schedule (21 & 22 February)
The tournament gets underway with a Welcome Reception for all the teams, sponsors and officials at the ABC Hotel in Angeles City on Friday night.
The tournament matches will be played on two fields at Clark Parade Ground on Saturday and Sunday.
The Sixes Gala Dinner function will be attended by 200 plus guests will take place at the Holiday Inn Ball Room on Saturday night from 7pm with guest speaker Jack Richards (ex England and Surrey).
The Sixes Awards Ceremony will take place immediately following the final on Sunday afternoon.
Tournament Facts
Event Title: Etihad Airways Philippine International Sixes 2009
Dates: 21 & 22 February 2009
Time: Saturday - 8am to 5pm, Sunday 9am - 5pm
Venue: Parade Ground, Clark Field, Pampanga, Philippines
Competing teams: 16 (see list below)
Functions: 5 (Launch Party, Captains & Officials Meeting, Welcome Reception, Gala Dinner, Awards Ceremony)
Organisers: Nomad Sports Club and the Asian Cricket Sixes Tour
Title Sponsors: Etihad Airways
Website: www.philippinesixes.com
For further information contact:
Michael 'Cat' Maher
Chairman, Asian cricket Sixes Tour
Website: www.cricketsixes.com
Email: cat@cricketsixes.com
William Bailey
Chairman, Philippines Cricket
Email: william.d.bailey@ph.pwc.com
Etihad Airways Philippine International Cricket Sixes 2009
Team Entries
1/ CBB SC's (Australia)
2/ CBB SilverBats (Thailand)
3/ Bounty Bucaneer's (Malaysia)
4/ HKCC Taverners (Hong Kong)
5/ Singapore Misfits (Singapore)
6/ Swagmen Swiggers & Swipers (Philippines)
7/ Gladiators (Korea)
8/ Beijing CC (China)
9/ Manila Nomads (Philippines)
10/ Manila Indians (Philippines)
11/ Manila Roos (Philippines)
12/ Cebu Cricket Club (Philippines)
13/ Craft (Philippines)
14/ Singapore Spirits (Singapore)
15/ Lamma CC (Hong Kong)
16/ Kelawar CC (Malaysia)
Top teenage rugby players to learn from best
New Zealand’s top 30 teenage rugby players have been named to attend the Sir Brian Lochore Under 17 development camp in April.
The 30 players were selected following four franchise development and selection camps involving 85 players from around the country.
The April camp will take place at the Sport and Rugby Institute in Palmerston North from 15-19 April.
Throughout the five-day camp players will receive specialist coaching from some of New Zealand rugby’s top resource coaches.
During the camp players will develop their technical, tactical, physical, nutritional, mental and leadership skills.
NZRU General Manager Professional Rugby Neil Sorensen said the development camps were integral to the organisation’s wider High Performance strategy.
“These players are New Zealand rugby’s future. Giving them access to some of our country’s most talented coaches will ensure they gain the right skills both on and off the field to develop their rugby careers,” said Sorensen.
The final camp of the year will take place in December.
New Zealand Under 17 squad: Tomasi Alosio (Wellington), Fraser Armstrong (Waikato), Ben Berridge (Northland), Sam Cane (Bay of Plenty), Logan Daniels (Waikato), Scott Eade (Southland), Joshua Fa’agalu (Waikato), Michael Fatialofa (Auckland), Bryn Hall (Auckland), Ethan Hamilton (Nelson), Doug Horrocks (Wanganui), Milford Keresoma (Auckland), Tuitakau Kioa (Auckland), Joe Latta (Otago), Christian Lloyd (Wellington), Albert Nikoro (Auckland), Hamish Northcott (Manawatu), Reuben Northover (Nelson), Matt O’Sullivan (Nelson), Opetera Peleseuma (Wellington), Thomas ‘TJ’ Perenara (Wellington), Jacob Proctor (Bay of Plenty), Tukiterangi Raimona (Southland), Nick Ross (Waikato), James Schrader (Canterbury), Astan Talaia (Auckland), Jordon Taufa (Auckland), Aniseto ‘Ofa’ Tuungafasi (Auckland), Ihaia West (Hawke’s Bay), Kaperiere ‘Papa’ Wharewera (Bay of Plenty).
The 30 players were selected following four franchise development and selection camps involving 85 players from around the country.
The April camp will take place at the Sport and Rugby Institute in Palmerston North from 15-19 April.
Throughout the five-day camp players will receive specialist coaching from some of New Zealand rugby’s top resource coaches.
During the camp players will develop their technical, tactical, physical, nutritional, mental and leadership skills.
NZRU General Manager Professional Rugby Neil Sorensen said the development camps were integral to the organisation’s wider High Performance strategy.
“These players are New Zealand rugby’s future. Giving them access to some of our country’s most talented coaches will ensure they gain the right skills both on and off the field to develop their rugby careers,” said Sorensen.
The final camp of the year will take place in December.
New Zealand Under 17 squad: Tomasi Alosio (Wellington), Fraser Armstrong (Waikato), Ben Berridge (Northland), Sam Cane (Bay of Plenty), Logan Daniels (Waikato), Scott Eade (Southland), Joshua Fa’agalu (Waikato), Michael Fatialofa (Auckland), Bryn Hall (Auckland), Ethan Hamilton (Nelson), Doug Horrocks (Wanganui), Milford Keresoma (Auckland), Tuitakau Kioa (Auckland), Joe Latta (Otago), Christian Lloyd (Wellington), Albert Nikoro (Auckland), Hamish Northcott (Manawatu), Reuben Northover (Nelson), Matt O’Sullivan (Nelson), Opetera Peleseuma (Wellington), Thomas ‘TJ’ Perenara (Wellington), Jacob Proctor (Bay of Plenty), Tukiterangi Raimona (Southland), Nick Ross (Waikato), James Schrader (Canterbury), Astan Talaia (Auckland), Jordon Taufa (Auckland), Aniseto ‘Ofa’ Tuungafasi (Auckland), Ihaia West (Hawke’s Bay), Kaperiere ‘Papa’ Wharewera (Bay of Plenty).
COWBOYS BRINGING PLENTY OF STARS FOR NORTH HARBOUR TRIAL
North Queensland arrives in Auckland later today (Wednesday) with a strong 25-man squad – headlined by captain Johnathan Thurston – for its NRL trial against the Vodafone Warriors at North Harbour Stadium on Sunday.
Brilliant fullback Matt Bowen and tough back rower Steve Southern are both travelling after having major off-season surgery.
However, coach Neil Henry says both players will be training only while in Auckland.
He has indicated former Vodafone Warriors halfback Grant Rovelli - who'll be making his debut for the Cowboys - and Travis Burns will alternate at standoff outside the exceptional Johnathan Thurston.
Also included in the touring party is 2008 Vodafone Junior Warrior Steve Rapira along with other off-season signings Shannon Hegarty (South Sydney), Willie Tonga (Bulldogs), Clint Amos (Gold Coast), Antonio Kaufusi (Melbourne) and Manase Manuokafoa (South Sydney) plus 20-year-old New Zealander James Tamou who has moved the Sydney Roosters. He played for New Zealand Maori against the All Golds and the Australian Indigenous team last year.
The Cowboys are using the trip as a chance to have their NRL squad in camp, based at the Millennium Institute of Sport on Auckland's North Shore.
The full squad is: Ben Farrar, John Williams, Shannon Hegarty, Donald Malone, Ty Williams, Ashley Graham, Willie Tonga, Johnathan Thurston, Travis Burns, Grant Rovelli, Aaron Payne, Clint Amos, Carl Webb, Antonio Kaufusi, Matt Scott, Scott Bolton, Shane Tronc, Luke O’Donnell, Manase Manuokofoa, Steve Rapira, James Tamou, Dayne Weston, Matt Bowen, Steve Southern, Ben Harris.
• Go to www.warriors.co.nz or www.ticketek.co.nz for all ticketing information and other details surrounding the trial.
Brilliant fullback Matt Bowen and tough back rower Steve Southern are both travelling after having major off-season surgery.
However, coach Neil Henry says both players will be training only while in Auckland.
He has indicated former Vodafone Warriors halfback Grant Rovelli - who'll be making his debut for the Cowboys - and Travis Burns will alternate at standoff outside the exceptional Johnathan Thurston.
Also included in the touring party is 2008 Vodafone Junior Warrior Steve Rapira along with other off-season signings Shannon Hegarty (South Sydney), Willie Tonga (Bulldogs), Clint Amos (Gold Coast), Antonio Kaufusi (Melbourne) and Manase Manuokafoa (South Sydney) plus 20-year-old New Zealander James Tamou who has moved the Sydney Roosters. He played for New Zealand Maori against the All Golds and the Australian Indigenous team last year.
The Cowboys are using the trip as a chance to have their NRL squad in camp, based at the Millennium Institute of Sport on Auckland's North Shore.
The full squad is: Ben Farrar, John Williams, Shannon Hegarty, Donald Malone, Ty Williams, Ashley Graham, Willie Tonga, Johnathan Thurston, Travis Burns, Grant Rovelli, Aaron Payne, Clint Amos, Carl Webb, Antonio Kaufusi, Matt Scott, Scott Bolton, Shane Tronc, Luke O’Donnell, Manase Manuokofoa, Steve Rapira, James Tamou, Dayne Weston, Matt Bowen, Steve Southern, Ben Harris.
• Go to www.warriors.co.nz or www.ticketek.co.nz for all ticketing information and other details surrounding the trial.
A1GP Title Fight Continues in South Africa
A1GP World Cup of Motorsport makes its first ever visit to South Africa’s most famous motor racing circuit, Kyalami, this weekend for round five of the series, Go-GP.Org A1GP Gauteng, South Africa on 20 - 22 February 2009.
The Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit is located in Gauteng province, just north of Johannesburg and has a rich history of international motorsport events on four and two wheels. The balanced blend of slow, medium and fast corners and the fact Kyalami is nearly 2,000 metres above sea level will present a challenge to both the race drivers and engineers at this weekend’s event.
The event is being supported by a number of commercial partners, including Go-GP.Org, the Gauteng government, SAB Miller, ABI and Neo Africa. Neo Africa will be hosting the exclusive Ignition and Podium parties and Pit Stop Party on the A1GP race weekend, as well as hosting a Charity Supercar Parade on race day for A1GP fans. Neo Africa will also be providing the facilities and communications infrastructure for the media centre at the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit.
Home nation A1 Team South Africa, with 22-year-old Adrian Zaugg at the wheel of the distinctively-liveried Vulindlela (“clear the way”), is currently ninth in the championship standings.
“I am always highly motivated to do well for my country, but especially in front of the home fans. We didn’t do so well in Durban last year and we haven’t enjoyed the start to the season we would have liked, so the Kyalami round is a big opportunity to get some good results and boost our championship points,” said the young South African.
Like the other drivers, Zaugg has no racing experience in an A1GP car on the 2.65-mile Kyalami circuit, although he completed a few demonstration laps in the previous A1GP car last year.
“Kyalami can be compared to Zandvoort (Netherlands) or Eastern Creek (Australia). It will present a real challenge to the drivers,” he says. “There are ups and downs, quick turns, blind turns, it has a bit of everything. There are some slow and fast chicanes and it’s quite bumpy in some places, but it’s still a nice mix. Overtaking will be difficult, but there will be one or two places where it will definitely be possible.
“The key will be to have a car that works well over bumps and is good in direction changes. A responsive car will be important."
A1 Team Germany, as previously announced, will make its Season Four debut this weekend in South Africa. The car will be driven by Michael Ammermüller, who has 14 caps and one win to his name in A1GP, and overseen by Team Principal, Rolf Beisswanger.
Nicolas Prost will take on the driver duties in South Africa for A1 Team France this weekend. Prost will take over from Loïc Duval who has driven the majority of races for the team over the last two seasons. It will be the 27-year-old’s second ever full race meeting following his run in Chengdu earlier this season.
“After a very positive outing in China the team decided to put its trust in me again, which I’m very happy about,” said Prost.
“I’m really looking forward to racing in Kyalami, but I know it will be difficult because the level of competition between the top six or seven guys is really high. I still need to learn a little bit, however, but if I can get the pace we can fight up front.”
He should also be able to call on his father for some extra insights into the Kyalami circuit. The last time the circuit was used for a Formula 1 race was 1993 with his father, Alain Prost, winning the race.
“It’s difficult for me because everywhere I race my Dad seemed to win there sometime,” Prost said in good humour. “I’m really used to that feeling. It’s nothing new. If I go to Magny Cours, or wherever, people go ‘Hey do you remember that your Dad…’ and I’m quickly like ‘Yes, I remember what my Dad did…’ ”
A1 Team New Zealand will see the return of Earl Bamber on what will be his first visit to the Kyalami circuit. Bamber will be in the cockpit of Black Beauty for his third A1GP weekend and for what will be his final weekend of being classed as an A1GP Rookie, which has allowed him to take advantage of the extra hour rookie practice on Friday mornings.
The 18-year-old has been in a three-week high performance training programme based in Oxford in the United Kingdom in preparation for the challenging conditions expected in Kyalami. The drivers will have to deal with the high altitude and hot conditions this weekend, which will be demanding on even the fittest drivers on the A1GP grid.
“I’m really excited to be back with the team for the next round of A1GP racing,” said Bamber. “I feel the fittest I’ve ever been after the intensive training in the UK, so combined with a solid review of Taupo I feel we’re in a good place as we head to South Africa.
“As a team we need to make sure we keep banking points, but I’d like to be back on the podium at Kyalami. We can’t forget that the other nations have also made some good progress with the new car however.”
A1 Team Great Britain has recalled Danny Watts to the driving seat. Watts had a very good reason for not being available for the last round in Taupo, as his partner was giving birth to their baby son. However, the 29-year-old will return to race for the team in South Africa.
“We’re sort of struggling in the points department at the moment so this weekend we’ve got to go out and get a really good result,” said Watts. “A couple of podiums would be good. We’ll all be putting in our best efforts as normal.”
A1 Team Indonesia has announced a change of lead driver for the first time in nearly two years. Zahir Ali’s performances in the last three rookie sessions have been enough to convince team bosses to give him the chance to be the squad’s main race driver for the rest of the season with Ali replacing Satrio Hermanto from this weekend’s races in South Africa
“The change in driver line up is a part of the A1 team Indonesia vision to support and improve the careers of young Indonesian drivers,” said A1 Team Indonesia team principal Bagoes Hermanto.
“I am very proud to be given the honour of representing my nation in A1GP, I will give my best efforts to the team and my aim will be to achieve two solid finishes in the races,” Ali said. “I have limited experience of the A1GP Powered by Ferrari car in comparison to some of the other drivers, but I hope to get to grips with the car and the new circuit as quick as possible.”
USA will retain the services of Marco Andretti while Jeroen Bleekemolen will be back in the car for A1 Team Netherlands.
Salvador Duran will be back behind the wheel for A1 Team Mexico after making his A1GP comeback last time out in Taupo.
"We are ready for the race in South Africa at Kyalami,” said Duran. “It is quite a complicated track, with medium speed corners and not many straights so you almost always have to be turning. I have talked with some people who have been there and they also agreed it is difficult. It's hard getting there to set up everything with no testing. However, we are going to do our best and we don't rule out getting a good result. At the moment, we can only promise that we are going to work intensely and make our best effort to achieve good results.”
Portugal will have the familiar face of Filipe Albuquerque hoping to keep up momentum in preparation for the team’s home event in April. Adam Carroll will be back for A1 Team Ireland in pursuit of both his and the teams first A1GP world title.
Prior to the race weekend A1GP went to the Phakisa Freeway Circuit, Welkom where the A1 Team Pakistan car ran for the first time with the team’s seat holder, Adam Khan, at the wheel. The 4.24 km circuit, which is approximately 250 kms south east of Johannesburg, has been booked for three days. On Monday the engineers fired up this completely new car with testing today (Tuesday) and tomorrow (Wednesday).
The next race on the A1GP calendar is A1GP Algarve, Portugal. A1GP Mexico City will no longer take place on 20-22 March, and as soon as A1GP receives the necessary FIA approval a new date will be announced.
The Go-GP.Org A1GP Gauteng, South Africa event runs from 21 – 22 February, with the series’ first track action being the rookie driver and developing nations’ sessions on Friday. Final practice and qualifying for the Sprint and Feature races will take place on Saturday with the two races scheduled to run on Sunday at 11.00 and 15.00 respectively.
The Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit is located in Gauteng province, just north of Johannesburg and has a rich history of international motorsport events on four and two wheels. The balanced blend of slow, medium and fast corners and the fact Kyalami is nearly 2,000 metres above sea level will present a challenge to both the race drivers and engineers at this weekend’s event.
The event is being supported by a number of commercial partners, including Go-GP.Org, the Gauteng government, SAB Miller, ABI and Neo Africa. Neo Africa will be hosting the exclusive Ignition and Podium parties and Pit Stop Party on the A1GP race weekend, as well as hosting a Charity Supercar Parade on race day for A1GP fans. Neo Africa will also be providing the facilities and communications infrastructure for the media centre at the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit.
Home nation A1 Team South Africa, with 22-year-old Adrian Zaugg at the wheel of the distinctively-liveried Vulindlela (“clear the way”), is currently ninth in the championship standings.
“I am always highly motivated to do well for my country, but especially in front of the home fans. We didn’t do so well in Durban last year and we haven’t enjoyed the start to the season we would have liked, so the Kyalami round is a big opportunity to get some good results and boost our championship points,” said the young South African.
Like the other drivers, Zaugg has no racing experience in an A1GP car on the 2.65-mile Kyalami circuit, although he completed a few demonstration laps in the previous A1GP car last year.
“Kyalami can be compared to Zandvoort (Netherlands) or Eastern Creek (Australia). It will present a real challenge to the drivers,” he says. “There are ups and downs, quick turns, blind turns, it has a bit of everything. There are some slow and fast chicanes and it’s quite bumpy in some places, but it’s still a nice mix. Overtaking will be difficult, but there will be one or two places where it will definitely be possible.
“The key will be to have a car that works well over bumps and is good in direction changes. A responsive car will be important."
A1 Team Germany, as previously announced, will make its Season Four debut this weekend in South Africa. The car will be driven by Michael Ammermüller, who has 14 caps and one win to his name in A1GP, and overseen by Team Principal, Rolf Beisswanger.
Nicolas Prost will take on the driver duties in South Africa for A1 Team France this weekend. Prost will take over from Loïc Duval who has driven the majority of races for the team over the last two seasons. It will be the 27-year-old’s second ever full race meeting following his run in Chengdu earlier this season.
“After a very positive outing in China the team decided to put its trust in me again, which I’m very happy about,” said Prost.
“I’m really looking forward to racing in Kyalami, but I know it will be difficult because the level of competition between the top six or seven guys is really high. I still need to learn a little bit, however, but if I can get the pace we can fight up front.”
He should also be able to call on his father for some extra insights into the Kyalami circuit. The last time the circuit was used for a Formula 1 race was 1993 with his father, Alain Prost, winning the race.
“It’s difficult for me because everywhere I race my Dad seemed to win there sometime,” Prost said in good humour. “I’m really used to that feeling. It’s nothing new. If I go to Magny Cours, or wherever, people go ‘Hey do you remember that your Dad…’ and I’m quickly like ‘Yes, I remember what my Dad did…’ ”
A1 Team New Zealand will see the return of Earl Bamber on what will be his first visit to the Kyalami circuit. Bamber will be in the cockpit of Black Beauty for his third A1GP weekend and for what will be his final weekend of being classed as an A1GP Rookie, which has allowed him to take advantage of the extra hour rookie practice on Friday mornings.
The 18-year-old has been in a three-week high performance training programme based in Oxford in the United Kingdom in preparation for the challenging conditions expected in Kyalami. The drivers will have to deal with the high altitude and hot conditions this weekend, which will be demanding on even the fittest drivers on the A1GP grid.
“I’m really excited to be back with the team for the next round of A1GP racing,” said Bamber. “I feel the fittest I’ve ever been after the intensive training in the UK, so combined with a solid review of Taupo I feel we’re in a good place as we head to South Africa.
“As a team we need to make sure we keep banking points, but I’d like to be back on the podium at Kyalami. We can’t forget that the other nations have also made some good progress with the new car however.”
A1 Team Great Britain has recalled Danny Watts to the driving seat. Watts had a very good reason for not being available for the last round in Taupo, as his partner was giving birth to their baby son. However, the 29-year-old will return to race for the team in South Africa.
“We’re sort of struggling in the points department at the moment so this weekend we’ve got to go out and get a really good result,” said Watts. “A couple of podiums would be good. We’ll all be putting in our best efforts as normal.”
A1 Team Indonesia has announced a change of lead driver for the first time in nearly two years. Zahir Ali’s performances in the last three rookie sessions have been enough to convince team bosses to give him the chance to be the squad’s main race driver for the rest of the season with Ali replacing Satrio Hermanto from this weekend’s races in South Africa
“The change in driver line up is a part of the A1 team Indonesia vision to support and improve the careers of young Indonesian drivers,” said A1 Team Indonesia team principal Bagoes Hermanto.
“I am very proud to be given the honour of representing my nation in A1GP, I will give my best efforts to the team and my aim will be to achieve two solid finishes in the races,” Ali said. “I have limited experience of the A1GP Powered by Ferrari car in comparison to some of the other drivers, but I hope to get to grips with the car and the new circuit as quick as possible.”
USA will retain the services of Marco Andretti while Jeroen Bleekemolen will be back in the car for A1 Team Netherlands.
Salvador Duran will be back behind the wheel for A1 Team Mexico after making his A1GP comeback last time out in Taupo.
"We are ready for the race in South Africa at Kyalami,” said Duran. “It is quite a complicated track, with medium speed corners and not many straights so you almost always have to be turning. I have talked with some people who have been there and they also agreed it is difficult. It's hard getting there to set up everything with no testing. However, we are going to do our best and we don't rule out getting a good result. At the moment, we can only promise that we are going to work intensely and make our best effort to achieve good results.”
Portugal will have the familiar face of Filipe Albuquerque hoping to keep up momentum in preparation for the team’s home event in April. Adam Carroll will be back for A1 Team Ireland in pursuit of both his and the teams first A1GP world title.
Prior to the race weekend A1GP went to the Phakisa Freeway Circuit, Welkom where the A1 Team Pakistan car ran for the first time with the team’s seat holder, Adam Khan, at the wheel. The 4.24 km circuit, which is approximately 250 kms south east of Johannesburg, has been booked for three days. On Monday the engineers fired up this completely new car with testing today (Tuesday) and tomorrow (Wednesday).
The next race on the A1GP calendar is A1GP Algarve, Portugal. A1GP Mexico City will no longer take place on 20-22 March, and as soon as A1GP receives the necessary FIA approval a new date will be announced.
The Go-GP.Org A1GP Gauteng, South Africa event runs from 21 – 22 February, with the series’ first track action being the rookie driver and developing nations’ sessions on Friday. Final practice and qualifying for the Sprint and Feature races will take place on Saturday with the two races scheduled to run on Sunday at 11.00 and 15.00 respectively.
Great win for King-Turner in Australia
Dan King-Turner had a big win today in the first round singles at the Futures Tournament in Berri, Australia.
He came up trumps against big hitting 7th-seeded Miles Armstrong, defeating the Australian in straight sets 6-3 6-3.
Armstrong has an ATP ranking of 345, compared to King-Turner at 469.
In afternoon matches on Tuesday, all three Kiwis in the event - King-Tuner, Rubin and Oliver Statham play their first round doubles. Results should be available tomorrow.
New Zealand's number one player, Rubin Statham will wait until Wednesday for his first match, when he is to face Shao-Xuan Zeng of China.
He came up trumps against big hitting 7th-seeded Miles Armstrong, defeating the Australian in straight sets 6-3 6-3.
Armstrong has an ATP ranking of 345, compared to King-Turner at 469.
In afternoon matches on Tuesday, all three Kiwis in the event - King-Tuner, Rubin and Oliver Statham play their first round doubles. Results should be available tomorrow.
New Zealand's number one player, Rubin Statham will wait until Wednesday for his first match, when he is to face Shao-Xuan Zeng of China.
SKINSTAD TO SPEARHEAD SOUTH AFRICAN CHALLENGE
Rugby World Cup winner Bobby Skinstad will lead a strong South African challenge at this year’s GFI HKFC Tens.
The Springboks icon is part of a new team, Scatterlings of Africa, who will attempt to end New Zealand’s eight-year winning streak at the popular Hong Kong tournament.
“All the boys have played at a high level,” revealed team organiser and player Rorke Slater.
“We have guys who have represented their provinces and played Super 14, plus of course Bob, who captained the Springboks and has won a World Cup.
“We cannot wait to get to Hong Kong. Most of the guys haven’t been there before so we’re looking forward to seeing such a great city and hopefully playing some top rugby.”
Back rower Skinstad played 42 tests for South Africa, including 12 as captain, and was a member of the victorious Springboks squad at the 2007 Rugby World Cup.
Scatterlings of Africa – named after a song by South Africa’s most famous musician, Johnny Clegg – are mainly Durban-based but will also feature three players from Cape Town and a trio of players based in Hong Kong.
“We are an independent side made up of friends, so we are not linked to one particular club,” explained Slater.
Since Fiji’s Magicians triumphed at the Tens in 2000, teams from New Zealand have won the past eight editions of the tournament.
The 2009 GFI HKFC Tens will be held at Hong Kong Football Club in Happy Valley from March 25-26.
The tournament will also feature a German team for the first time – the Wild Titans, representing the Wild Rugby Academy in Heidelberg,
“The Tens is an excellent opportunity to continue the development of young German players through exposure to a higher level of competition,” said Titans coach Murray Archibald.
“Competing against teams from all over the world gives German rugby and the Wild Rugby Academy valuable experience in the international rugby arena.”
The third new team this year will be the Playmore Phantoms, comprising elite players from New Zealand supplemented by promising youngsters from the Hong Kong league.
“We’ll have a few Hong Kong Chinese players in the squad and it will be great experience for them to team up with the New Zealand boys and take on some of the overseas teams,” said Phantoms manager Fred Moe.
Tens organising committee chairman Paul Smith predicted another high quality tournament.
“We’re delighted to welcome three new teams this year and it will be particularly interesting to see the South African challenge to New Zealand’s supremacy,” he said.
“The tournament has attracted some truly exceptional players in recent years, including Jonah Lomu, Joe Roff, Toutai Kefu and Neil Jenkins, so it’s great news for rugby fans that Bobby Skinstad will be appearing this year.
“The Tens has developed a reputation as the best ten-a-side rugby tournament in the world and we are all looking forward to what promises to be another two days of fantastic rugby.”
Sixteen club and invitational teams from around the world will compete for four trophies – the Cup, Plate, Bowl and Shield.
The Tens was first held in 1986 to celebrate HKFC’s centenary and is now firmly established as a highlight of the Asian rugby calendar.
The tournament is once again title sponsored by global cash and derivatives broker GFI.
Organisers have also confirmed that Skinstad will be making an earlier visit to Hong Kong as guest speaker at the Tens Dinner, to be held at Football Club on Saturday, March 7.
The Springboks great has developed a reputation as a livewire after-dinner speaker and is sure to keep guests entertained with stories from his stellar career.
Australian TV sports anchor Toby Lawson will be the MC while the evening will also include a live interactive quiz and an auction of unique memorabilia.
Tickets costing HK$880 per person or HK$8,000 per table of 10 can be obtained by downloading the booking form at www.hongkongtens.com or by emailing nicola@laxtonmarketing.com.
The Springboks icon is part of a new team, Scatterlings of Africa, who will attempt to end New Zealand’s eight-year winning streak at the popular Hong Kong tournament.
“All the boys have played at a high level,” revealed team organiser and player Rorke Slater.
“We have guys who have represented their provinces and played Super 14, plus of course Bob, who captained the Springboks and has won a World Cup.
“We cannot wait to get to Hong Kong. Most of the guys haven’t been there before so we’re looking forward to seeing such a great city and hopefully playing some top rugby.”
Back rower Skinstad played 42 tests for South Africa, including 12 as captain, and was a member of the victorious Springboks squad at the 2007 Rugby World Cup.
Scatterlings of Africa – named after a song by South Africa’s most famous musician, Johnny Clegg – are mainly Durban-based but will also feature three players from Cape Town and a trio of players based in Hong Kong.
“We are an independent side made up of friends, so we are not linked to one particular club,” explained Slater.
Since Fiji’s Magicians triumphed at the Tens in 2000, teams from New Zealand have won the past eight editions of the tournament.
The 2009 GFI HKFC Tens will be held at Hong Kong Football Club in Happy Valley from March 25-26.
The tournament will also feature a German team for the first time – the Wild Titans, representing the Wild Rugby Academy in Heidelberg,
“The Tens is an excellent opportunity to continue the development of young German players through exposure to a higher level of competition,” said Titans coach Murray Archibald.
“Competing against teams from all over the world gives German rugby and the Wild Rugby Academy valuable experience in the international rugby arena.”
The third new team this year will be the Playmore Phantoms, comprising elite players from New Zealand supplemented by promising youngsters from the Hong Kong league.
“We’ll have a few Hong Kong Chinese players in the squad and it will be great experience for them to team up with the New Zealand boys and take on some of the overseas teams,” said Phantoms manager Fred Moe.
Tens organising committee chairman Paul Smith predicted another high quality tournament.
“We’re delighted to welcome three new teams this year and it will be particularly interesting to see the South African challenge to New Zealand’s supremacy,” he said.
“The tournament has attracted some truly exceptional players in recent years, including Jonah Lomu, Joe Roff, Toutai Kefu and Neil Jenkins, so it’s great news for rugby fans that Bobby Skinstad will be appearing this year.
“The Tens has developed a reputation as the best ten-a-side rugby tournament in the world and we are all looking forward to what promises to be another two days of fantastic rugby.”
Sixteen club and invitational teams from around the world will compete for four trophies – the Cup, Plate, Bowl and Shield.
The Tens was first held in 1986 to celebrate HKFC’s centenary and is now firmly established as a highlight of the Asian rugby calendar.
The tournament is once again title sponsored by global cash and derivatives broker GFI.
Organisers have also confirmed that Skinstad will be making an earlier visit to Hong Kong as guest speaker at the Tens Dinner, to be held at Football Club on Saturday, March 7.
The Springboks great has developed a reputation as a livewire after-dinner speaker and is sure to keep guests entertained with stories from his stellar career.
Australian TV sports anchor Toby Lawson will be the MC while the evening will also include a live interactive quiz and an auction of unique memorabilia.
Tickets costing HK$880 per person or HK$8,000 per table of 10 can be obtained by downloading the booking form at www.hongkongtens.com or by emailing nicola@laxtonmarketing.com.
Rogers excited to return to Darwin
Mat Rogers remembers Darwin as the place where a starry-eyed teenager once watched the Canterbury Bulldogs in a rare game of top-level rugby league in the Top End.
On Saturday night, the 33-year-old veteran will return to Darwin – this time as one of the star attractions when the Jetstar Gold Coast Titans take on Cronulla in a pre-season trial match at Richardson Park.
“I remember as a kid that Canterbury went up there and played a game so it was very exciting for me as a youngster to see the NRL players come to town,’’ said Rogers.
“To be able to be one of those players going back at a later date is pretty exciting, I know what a thrill it was for me, so I’m really looking forward to going up there and seeing a lot of the kids.’’
Rogers’ association with Darwin came about through his late father Steve, who was the CEO of the Darwin Rugby League during the early to mid 1990s.
His parents lived there for several years while he attended boarding school.
“My parents lived there so I’m looking forward to getting up there and having a game of footy and seeing some old friends,’’ said Rogers.
“Rugby league has got a really strong following up there and the league went from strength to strength while dad was up there.
“I think he even coached the Nightcliffe Dragons to a premiership one year (1992) so it was exciting times.’’
The dual-international, about to embark on his 15th season at the top, said he felt better than ever heading into his first hit-out for 2009.
“I think everyone’s pretty up-beat,’’ said Rogers.
“It was funny, we were warming up yesterday and Mark Minichiello jumped out of his skin and said ‘footy is around the corner’. It was like he was a big kid.
“We’ve been belting each other at training for so long, we’re looking forward to belting someone else in another coloured jersey.’’
On Saturday night, the 33-year-old veteran will return to Darwin – this time as one of the star attractions when the Jetstar Gold Coast Titans take on Cronulla in a pre-season trial match at Richardson Park.
“I remember as a kid that Canterbury went up there and played a game so it was very exciting for me as a youngster to see the NRL players come to town,’’ said Rogers.
“To be able to be one of those players going back at a later date is pretty exciting, I know what a thrill it was for me, so I’m really looking forward to going up there and seeing a lot of the kids.’’
Rogers’ association with Darwin came about through his late father Steve, who was the CEO of the Darwin Rugby League during the early to mid 1990s.
His parents lived there for several years while he attended boarding school.
“My parents lived there so I’m looking forward to getting up there and having a game of footy and seeing some old friends,’’ said Rogers.
“Rugby league has got a really strong following up there and the league went from strength to strength while dad was up there.
“I think he even coached the Nightcliffe Dragons to a premiership one year (1992) so it was exciting times.’’
The dual-international, about to embark on his 15th season at the top, said he felt better than ever heading into his first hit-out for 2009.
“I think everyone’s pretty up-beat,’’ said Rogers.
“It was funny, we were warming up yesterday and Mark Minichiello jumped out of his skin and said ‘footy is around the corner’. It was like he was a big kid.
“We’ve been belting each other at training for so long, we’re looking forward to belting someone else in another coloured jersey.’’
Adam Jones Will Pair With Dan Eaves
Cartridge World Carbon Zero Racing has announced that Adam Jones will complete its driver pairing for entry into the 2009 HiQ MSA British Touring Car Championship (BTCC). Adam will join former BTCC Independents Champion and fan-favourite Dan Eaves in the first motor-racing team created to run its entire operation carbon zero.
Birmingham-born Jones, 28, returns to the track after a fantastic 2008 season in which he finished 3rd in the independent standings. Adam finished the season in 9th place in the overall Drivers Championship and third in the Independent standings. Highlights of his 2008 season were four 2nd places, two 3rd places and 6 podium positions.
When fans return to Brands Hatch in April for the first round of the BTCC 2009, they will be able to watch out for an exciting season from the strong pairing of the two motorsport professionals. Jones will join Dan Eaves, ex-independent BTCC Champion. Dan holds the record as the only BTCC driver to win all three races on race day.
Cartridge World Carbon Zero Racing has received much attention since its team title sponsor launch at the Transport Research Laboratory in June 2008, where it confirmed its intention to operate a carbon zero policy, running two Seat Leon's on bio-fuels, minimising its emissions and off-setting any balance.
Mark Holland, UK General Manager for title sponsor Cartridge World, said:
“Cartridge World Carbon Zero Racing is the only race team in Europe created with the sole intention of showcasing the performance, reliability and environmental advantages of new fuels, technology and ongoing R&D. Our association with the team demonstrates our unwavering commitment to the environment, and provides the company and its franchisees throughout the UK with a platform to demonstrate our mission to prevent millions of empty printer cartridges from being needlessly sent to landfill”.
Birmingham-born Jones, 28, returns to the track after a fantastic 2008 season in which he finished 3rd in the independent standings. Adam finished the season in 9th place in the overall Drivers Championship and third in the Independent standings. Highlights of his 2008 season were four 2nd places, two 3rd places and 6 podium positions.
When fans return to Brands Hatch in April for the first round of the BTCC 2009, they will be able to watch out for an exciting season from the strong pairing of the two motorsport professionals. Jones will join Dan Eaves, ex-independent BTCC Champion. Dan holds the record as the only BTCC driver to win all three races on race day.
Cartridge World Carbon Zero Racing has received much attention since its team title sponsor launch at the Transport Research Laboratory in June 2008, where it confirmed its intention to operate a carbon zero policy, running two Seat Leon's on bio-fuels, minimising its emissions and off-setting any balance.
Mark Holland, UK General Manager for title sponsor Cartridge World, said:
“Cartridge World Carbon Zero Racing is the only race team in Europe created with the sole intention of showcasing the performance, reliability and environmental advantages of new fuels, technology and ongoing R&D. Our association with the team demonstrates our unwavering commitment to the environment, and provides the company and its franchisees throughout the UK with a platform to demonstrate our mission to prevent millions of empty printer cartridges from being needlessly sent to landfill”.
Bridgestone Motorsport’s GP2 Asia Series Report
Nico Hulkenberg (ART Grand Prix) and Sergio Perez (Barwa International Campos Team) both took race wins this week in the first ever Bridgestone-supported GP2 Asia Series night race at the Losail International Circuit, Qatar.
Hulkenberg started the fourth round well, claiming his second consecutive pole position with a time of 1min 35.741seconds. The time was 0.723 seconds faster than Perez who was second quickest, closely followed in third by teammate Vitaly Petrov.
Bridgestone’s medium compound GP2 Asia Series slick tyre was used to perfection by Hulkenberg in Friday’s 34-lap Feature Race, where he collected his first GP2 Asia win. The German driver initially lost his lead to Mexican Perez off the start line, whilst the race was disrupted following a collision involving Sakon Yamamoto (ART Grand Prix) and Yelmer Buurman (Ocean Racing Technology). Rodolfo Gonzalez (Fisichella Motor Sport International) was also caught in the incident, although fortunately none of the three drivers were injured. Petrov, who held third position from early on, was the first of the top drivers to pit on lap ten, allowing him to pass his Campos teammate after the latter made his own compulsory pitstop on lap 14.
Hulkenberg regained the lead following a mid-race sprint and claimed victory over 13 seconds ahead of Perez, whilst Petrov made it two Campos drivers on the podium. Current series leader Kamui Kobayashi finished fourth, with Dams teammate, Jerome d’Ambrosio, finishing fifth.
Saturday’s reverse grid Sprint Race saw an all-Arden International Motorsport front row. Campos teammates Perez and Petrov, starting from sixth and seventh respectively, moved rapidly to the front of the grid. Petrov led the opening lap but was overtaken by Perez on lap 2, allowing the Mexican to claim his second win of the season. For the second time this weekend both Campos drivers featured on the podium.
Hulkenberg took third position after a close battle with Edoardo Mortara, who finished fourth. Perez set the fastest lap, of 1min 39.527seconds, on lap 22.
Leaving Qatar, Kobayashi continues to lead the drivers’ championship on 39 points from Davide Valsecchi on 29. Hulkenberg has made his way up to third on 27 points. Dams lead the teams’ championship with 60 points from Campos on 44. ART Grand Prix is third on 34 points. The next round of the GP2 Asia Series is scheduled for April 4-5 at the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia.
Quote from Kentaro Yamamoto – Bridgestone Motorsport GP2 Series Engineer
“For the first ever GP2 Asia night race we provided all teams and drivers with the medium compound Bridgestone Potenza slick tyre. This specification was a good choice for warm up, which was proved in Thursdays’ exciting qualifying session, with the majority of drivers setting faster lap times after the red flag.
During the race we were surprised to see most drivers experience understeer which is rare in GP2 Series cars. This led to graining and degradation of the front tyres. We will learn from our experience here in Qatar and apply this knowledge to future product development. Both Nico Hulkenberg and Sergio Perez managed their tyres exceptionally well enabling them to post good results this weekend.”
Hulkenberg started the fourth round well, claiming his second consecutive pole position with a time of 1min 35.741seconds. The time was 0.723 seconds faster than Perez who was second quickest, closely followed in third by teammate Vitaly Petrov.
Bridgestone’s medium compound GP2 Asia Series slick tyre was used to perfection by Hulkenberg in Friday’s 34-lap Feature Race, where he collected his first GP2 Asia win. The German driver initially lost his lead to Mexican Perez off the start line, whilst the race was disrupted following a collision involving Sakon Yamamoto (ART Grand Prix) and Yelmer Buurman (Ocean Racing Technology). Rodolfo Gonzalez (Fisichella Motor Sport International) was also caught in the incident, although fortunately none of the three drivers were injured. Petrov, who held third position from early on, was the first of the top drivers to pit on lap ten, allowing him to pass his Campos teammate after the latter made his own compulsory pitstop on lap 14.
Hulkenberg regained the lead following a mid-race sprint and claimed victory over 13 seconds ahead of Perez, whilst Petrov made it two Campos drivers on the podium. Current series leader Kamui Kobayashi finished fourth, with Dams teammate, Jerome d’Ambrosio, finishing fifth.
Saturday’s reverse grid Sprint Race saw an all-Arden International Motorsport front row. Campos teammates Perez and Petrov, starting from sixth and seventh respectively, moved rapidly to the front of the grid. Petrov led the opening lap but was overtaken by Perez on lap 2, allowing the Mexican to claim his second win of the season. For the second time this weekend both Campos drivers featured on the podium.
Hulkenberg took third position after a close battle with Edoardo Mortara, who finished fourth. Perez set the fastest lap, of 1min 39.527seconds, on lap 22.
Leaving Qatar, Kobayashi continues to lead the drivers’ championship on 39 points from Davide Valsecchi on 29. Hulkenberg has made his way up to third on 27 points. Dams lead the teams’ championship with 60 points from Campos on 44. ART Grand Prix is third on 34 points. The next round of the GP2 Asia Series is scheduled for April 4-5 at the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia.
Quote from Kentaro Yamamoto – Bridgestone Motorsport GP2 Series Engineer
“For the first ever GP2 Asia night race we provided all teams and drivers with the medium compound Bridgestone Potenza slick tyre. This specification was a good choice for warm up, which was proved in Thursdays’ exciting qualifying session, with the majority of drivers setting faster lap times after the red flag.
During the race we were surprised to see most drivers experience understeer which is rare in GP2 Series cars. This led to graining and degradation of the front tyres. We will learn from our experience here in Qatar and apply this knowledge to future product development. Both Nico Hulkenberg and Sergio Perez managed their tyres exceptionally well enabling them to post good results this weekend.”
Anthony Kang Wins Malaysian Open
American Anthony Kang secured the Malaysian Open using a GEL groove putter on Sunday (February 15) at the Saujana Golf & Country Club in Kuala Lumpur.
Kang recorded his first victory in eight years using a GEL Rego putter from the Paul Hurrion Signature Range, which he had been given by GEL rep, Shane Warde, at the start of the week.
“I actually dreamt last night that I won the tournament but I have those sort of dreams quite often!" said Kang, who had been using a GEL putter from the original range before switching to the GEL Rego. "It feels great to have beaten a strong field here - it hasn't quite sunk in yet but it is an amazing feeling.”
By winning the Malaysian Open, which is co-sanctioned by the Asian Tour, Kang earned the biggest pay cheque of his career with the first prize of US$333,330.
Despite being launched just two years ago, GEL has already clocked up four Tour victories; American Bryan Saltus won the 2007 Johnnie Walker Cambodian Open on the Asian Tour using a GEL Topaz, Hsu Mong-nan of Chinese Taipei claimed the Omega China Tour’s Shanghai Championship in 2008 with a GEL Jade and American Tom Stankowski clinched the 2008 Canadian Tour Championship using a GEL Emerald.
“We are delighted to be a part of the success that these four players have enjoyed around the world using our GEL putters and we look forward to many more victories to come,” commented Alec Pettigrew, founder and managing director of Groove Equipment Ltd (GEL) Golf.
GEL Golf has firmly established itself as the number one groove putter on Tour in Asia and is aggressively working its way into the US PGA, European and Canadian Tours.
Kang recorded his first victory in eight years using a GEL Rego putter from the Paul Hurrion Signature Range, which he had been given by GEL rep, Shane Warde, at the start of the week.
“I actually dreamt last night that I won the tournament but I have those sort of dreams quite often!" said Kang, who had been using a GEL putter from the original range before switching to the GEL Rego. "It feels great to have beaten a strong field here - it hasn't quite sunk in yet but it is an amazing feeling.”
By winning the Malaysian Open, which is co-sanctioned by the Asian Tour, Kang earned the biggest pay cheque of his career with the first prize of US$333,330.
Despite being launched just two years ago, GEL has already clocked up four Tour victories; American Bryan Saltus won the 2007 Johnnie Walker Cambodian Open on the Asian Tour using a GEL Topaz, Hsu Mong-nan of Chinese Taipei claimed the Omega China Tour’s Shanghai Championship in 2008 with a GEL Jade and American Tom Stankowski clinched the 2008 Canadian Tour Championship using a GEL Emerald.
“We are delighted to be a part of the success that these four players have enjoyed around the world using our GEL putters and we look forward to many more victories to come,” commented Alec Pettigrew, founder and managing director of Groove Equipment Ltd (GEL) Golf.
GEL Golf has firmly established itself as the number one groove putter on Tour in Asia and is aggressively working its way into the US PGA, European and Canadian Tours.
Statement on Fetu’u Vainikolo
The New Zealand Rugby Union and Highlanders are investigating an incident involving Highlanders player Fetu’u Vainikolo, NZRU General Manager Professional Rugby Neil Sorensen said today.
“We are aware that a member of the public has made a complaint to the Highlanders about Fetu’u Vainikolo after an incident at a Dunedin bar early on Saturday morning (14 February),” Mr Sorensen said.
“We are taking the matter seriously and have commenced our own misconduct process, together with Highlanders team management, which will ascertain the facts and determine any penalty deemed appropriate,” Mr Sorensen concluded.
The Collective Employment Agreement (CEA) between the NZRU and its professional players includes a formal process for investigating any incidents of misconduct.
The NZRU and Highlanders will make further comment at the completion of the misconduct hearing, which is expected to take place this week.
“We are aware that a member of the public has made a complaint to the Highlanders about Fetu’u Vainikolo after an incident at a Dunedin bar early on Saturday morning (14 February),” Mr Sorensen said.
“We are taking the matter seriously and have commenced our own misconduct process, together with Highlanders team management, which will ascertain the facts and determine any penalty deemed appropriate,” Mr Sorensen concluded.
The Collective Employment Agreement (CEA) between the NZRU and its professional players includes a formal process for investigating any incidents of misconduct.
The NZRU and Highlanders will make further comment at the completion of the misconduct hearing, which is expected to take place this week.
BIG NAMES CLEARED TO LINE UP FOR VODAFONE WARRIORS IN NORTH HARBOUR TRIAL
Newly re-signed Simon Mannering, his World Cup-winning Kiwi team-mates Nathan Fien and Jerome Ropati plus Australian internationals Steve Price and Brent Tate have been cleared to play in the Vodafone Warriors’ NRL trial against North Queensland at North Harbour Stadium on Sunday.
After being ruled out of last Thursday night’s 24-12 trial win against Melbourne in Hamilton, coach Ivan Cleary today confirmed all five would be involved in the second of the club’s three preseason hit-outs ahead of their first-round NRL encounter with Parramatta at Mt Smart Stadium on Saturday, March 14.
Price and Tate will be having their first outings since Australia’s World Cup semi-final clash against Fiji last November. Injury kept them out of the Kangaroos’ 20-34 loss to New Zealand in the final, Tate with a hip flexor problem and Price with a torn calf.
Mannering, Fien and Ropati will be back on the field for the first time since starring in the Kiwis’ triumph at Suncorp Stadium.
By signing a new three-year contract taking him through to the end of the 2012 season, Mannering (22) is set to stretch his Vodafone Warriors career to eight seasons after making his debut in 2005. He will start the 2009 campaign with 77 appearances, giving him a chance of reaching the 100-game mark for the club later this season.
While Cleary has confirmed the quintet for Sunday’s match, he won’t reveal his full squad for the match until later in the week.
The NRL trial against North Queensland kicks off at 4.00pm – again with two referees on the field – while the Vodafone Junior Warriors have their third NYC build-up match so far, taking on the Auckland Vulcans at 2.15pm. In their first two games the NYC side has beaten Waikato 38-6 and Hawke’s Bay 74-4.
The early game on Sunday will also be a trial for the Vulcans as they prepare for the New South Wales Cup season. Some players from the Vodafone Warriors’ NRL squad are expected to line up for the Vulcans.
The Vodafone Warriors have a short turnaround for their third trial, travelling to Australia to take on the Gold Coast Titans in Lismore six days later (Saturday, February 28). It’s the same for the Vodafone Junior Warriors who will play their only all-NYC preseason game when they face their Gold Coast counterparts in one of the curtain-raisers.
After being ruled out of last Thursday night’s 24-12 trial win against Melbourne in Hamilton, coach Ivan Cleary today confirmed all five would be involved in the second of the club’s three preseason hit-outs ahead of their first-round NRL encounter with Parramatta at Mt Smart Stadium on Saturday, March 14.
Price and Tate will be having their first outings since Australia’s World Cup semi-final clash against Fiji last November. Injury kept them out of the Kangaroos’ 20-34 loss to New Zealand in the final, Tate with a hip flexor problem and Price with a torn calf.
Mannering, Fien and Ropati will be back on the field for the first time since starring in the Kiwis’ triumph at Suncorp Stadium.
By signing a new three-year contract taking him through to the end of the 2012 season, Mannering (22) is set to stretch his Vodafone Warriors career to eight seasons after making his debut in 2005. He will start the 2009 campaign with 77 appearances, giving him a chance of reaching the 100-game mark for the club later this season.
While Cleary has confirmed the quintet for Sunday’s match, he won’t reveal his full squad for the match until later in the week.
The NRL trial against North Queensland kicks off at 4.00pm – again with two referees on the field – while the Vodafone Junior Warriors have their third NYC build-up match so far, taking on the Auckland Vulcans at 2.15pm. In their first two games the NYC side has beaten Waikato 38-6 and Hawke’s Bay 74-4.
The early game on Sunday will also be a trial for the Vulcans as they prepare for the New South Wales Cup season. Some players from the Vodafone Warriors’ NRL squad are expected to line up for the Vulcans.
The Vodafone Warriors have a short turnaround for their third trial, travelling to Australia to take on the Gold Coast Titans in Lismore six days later (Saturday, February 28). It’s the same for the Vodafone Junior Warriors who will play their only all-NYC preseason game when they face their Gold Coast counterparts in one of the curtain-raisers.
Napier fires with the ball in State Twenty20
Three successful performances with the ball in the State Twenty20 have cemented Graham Napier’s place at the top of the overall State MVP table. The English all rounder took 3 for 31 against the State Otago Volts, 2 for 25 in the victory over the State Northern Knights, and an outstanding 3 for 29 versus the State Auckland Aces. Whilst yet to fulfil his promise with the bat in the Twenty20 competition so far this season, Napier is satisfied with his overall performance and thrilled to be at top of the overall MVP ladder,
“Over the course of the season my form with the ball has been really consistent and I am really pleased with my returns at the bowling crease. All I need to do now is find my form with the bat to extend my lead and then hopefully take out the State MVP at the end of the summer,” he says.
Meanwhile, the leaders of the State Twenty20 competition, the State Otago Volts, have four players in the MVP top ten. These include recent additions to the BLACKCAPS in the shorter form of the game, Nathan McCullum and Ian Butler. McCullum has smashed 14 sixes in his four Twenty20 games this season, and has been instrumental in the success of his team.
MVP Top Five at a glance
1 Graham Napier (WGN) 304.73 points
2 Ewen Thompson (CD) 258.50
3 Neil Wagner (OTG) 249.20
4 Luke Woodcock (WGN) 237.07
5 Mathew Sinclair (CD) 236.20
State Twenty20 Top Five
1 Joseph Yovich (ND) 76.83
2 Graham Napier (WGN) 68.21
3 Luke Woodcock (WGN) 66.26
4 Warren McSkimming (OTG) 61.91
5 Dimitri Mascarenhas (OTG) 61.68
“Over the course of the season my form with the ball has been really consistent and I am really pleased with my returns at the bowling crease. All I need to do now is find my form with the bat to extend my lead and then hopefully take out the State MVP at the end of the summer,” he says.
Meanwhile, the leaders of the State Twenty20 competition, the State Otago Volts, have four players in the MVP top ten. These include recent additions to the BLACKCAPS in the shorter form of the game, Nathan McCullum and Ian Butler. McCullum has smashed 14 sixes in his four Twenty20 games this season, and has been instrumental in the success of his team.
MVP Top Five at a glance
1 Graham Napier (WGN) 304.73 points
2 Ewen Thompson (CD) 258.50
3 Neil Wagner (OTG) 249.20
4 Luke Woodcock (WGN) 237.07
5 Mathew Sinclair (CD) 236.20
State Twenty20 Top Five
1 Joseph Yovich (ND) 76.83
2 Graham Napier (WGN) 68.21
3 Luke Woodcock (WGN) 66.26
4 Warren McSkimming (OTG) 61.91
5 Dimitri Mascarenhas (OTG) 61.68
Beach tennis hits New Zealand shores
New Zealand’s first ever serving of the exciting new sport, Beach Tennis, is taking place at the North Shore City Beach Tennis Bash on 28 February and 1 March.
This inaugural sporting event which merges tennis, badminton and beach volleyball into one energetic package, is being hosted by Tennis New Zealand in association which the North Shore City Council and will take place on the North Shore’s popular Takapuna Beach.
The two day event features two age groups, the 12 to 17 year old tournament on Saturday 28 February followed by the Open age bracket on the Sunday.
The event is open to anyone and includes a 64 mixed doubles draw meaning males and females will have to team up for what promises to be an exciting sporting spectacle.
Significant prizes have been put in place including a trip for two to New Caledonia, flying Aircalin, going to the open age group winners.
New Zealand’s number one ranked male hard court tennis player, Rubin Statham, finished runner-up in the men’s singles of the 3rd Annual Australian Beach Tennis Championships in Melbourne last month. Statham will be in Auckland at the time on Davis Cup duties (preparing for the Tie NZ vs Malaysia 6-8 March) – but may be on the beach to watch his brother Oliver, also a top beach- and hard court tennis player, compete. Many other top tennis players in Auckland have also expressed an interest in competing in the Beach Tennis Bash.
The sport of Beach Tennis is on the rise, rapidly igniting beaches across the Europe, USA and more recently Australasia. The International Tennis Federation (ITF) administers a Pro Global Beach Tennis Circuit, with the World Beach Tennis Championships being held in Ravenna, Italy each year. The sport is predominantly played as doubles using purposely built Beach Tennis paddle racquets and a slightly depressurised tennis ball. The net stands at 1.7 metres, the court similar to beach volleyball and of course the ball does not bounce.
On a national level, Tennis NZ aims to introduce the sport of Beach Tennis as a way of extending New Zealand’s ‘Summer of Tennis’.
‘Beach Tennis is a great way to broaden one of our most popular summer sports and of reaching new people outside of the traditional tennis community. It attracts a new tennis market while helping contribute to our healthy, active nation’ says event coordinator Daniel Kral. Leveraging off this launch event Tennis NZ plans to make amateur Beach Tennis Tournaments a regular summer sport happening throughout New Zealand beaches.
For further information on the North Shore City Beach Tennis Bash or to learn how you can register yourself visit www.tennisnz.com/beachtennis or contact beachtennis@tennisnz.com
This inaugural sporting event which merges tennis, badminton and beach volleyball into one energetic package, is being hosted by Tennis New Zealand in association which the North Shore City Council and will take place on the North Shore’s popular Takapuna Beach.
The two day event features two age groups, the 12 to 17 year old tournament on Saturday 28 February followed by the Open age bracket on the Sunday.
The event is open to anyone and includes a 64 mixed doubles draw meaning males and females will have to team up for what promises to be an exciting sporting spectacle.
Significant prizes have been put in place including a trip for two to New Caledonia, flying Aircalin, going to the open age group winners.
New Zealand’s number one ranked male hard court tennis player, Rubin Statham, finished runner-up in the men’s singles of the 3rd Annual Australian Beach Tennis Championships in Melbourne last month. Statham will be in Auckland at the time on Davis Cup duties (preparing for the Tie NZ vs Malaysia 6-8 March) – but may be on the beach to watch his brother Oliver, also a top beach- and hard court tennis player, compete. Many other top tennis players in Auckland have also expressed an interest in competing in the Beach Tennis Bash.
The sport of Beach Tennis is on the rise, rapidly igniting beaches across the Europe, USA and more recently Australasia. The International Tennis Federation (ITF) administers a Pro Global Beach Tennis Circuit, with the World Beach Tennis Championships being held in Ravenna, Italy each year. The sport is predominantly played as doubles using purposely built Beach Tennis paddle racquets and a slightly depressurised tennis ball. The net stands at 1.7 metres, the court similar to beach volleyball and of course the ball does not bounce.
On a national level, Tennis NZ aims to introduce the sport of Beach Tennis as a way of extending New Zealand’s ‘Summer of Tennis’.
‘Beach Tennis is a great way to broaden one of our most popular summer sports and of reaching new people outside of the traditional tennis community. It attracts a new tennis market while helping contribute to our healthy, active nation’ says event coordinator Daniel Kral. Leveraging off this launch event Tennis NZ plans to make amateur Beach Tennis Tournaments a regular summer sport happening throughout New Zealand beaches.
For further information on the North Shore City Beach Tennis Bash or to learn how you can register yourself visit www.tennisnz.com/beachtennis or contact beachtennis@tennisnz.com
FORMER NEWCASTLE PROP SIGNS WITH VODAFONE WARRIORS FOR TWO YEARS
Former Newcastle prop Jesse Royal has boosted the Vodafone Warriors’ stocks of experienced front rowers by signing a two-year contract with the club.
The 28-year-old from Ngaruawahia might have thought his NRL days were over when he ended a 29-game first-grade career with the Knights at the end of the 2008 season.
He was working in the coalmines in Newcastle and eyeing a campaign with local club Kurri Kurri this year but, in a matter of days, the 1.93m, 107kg front rower will leave the mines behind as he looks to extend his top-grade career with his third NRL club.
Due to arrive in Auckland this weekend, Royal had been on the Vodafone Warriors’ radar.
“With Ruben (Wiki) finishing up last year, we obviously lost so much experience in the front row,” said Vodafone Warriors chief executive Wayne Scurrah.
“We’ve got some really talented young players coming through like Russell Packer, Leeson Ah Mau and Mataupu Poching but we were lacking some depth in terms of more seasoned players.
“We were looking for someone to fill the gap left by Ruben and work alongside Steve (Price), Sam (Rapira) and Evarn (Tuimavave). Another factor in signing Jesse now is Evarn’s neck injury which will keep him on the sideline for the start of the season.
“We’re delighted to secure Jesse and equally pleased that we’re able to bring another New Zealand player home.”
Jesse Te Ahukaramu Royal was a chef in the New Zealand Army based at Linton when he resigned in 2003 to take up a contract with the Penrith Panthers. After starting out with the Ngaruawahia Panthers and Turangawaewae in his junior days, he played with the Linton Cobras in the Manawatu competition and turned out for the Central Falcons in the Bartercard Cup in 2003. That year Royal was selected in the New Zealand A side.
He spent the 2004 season playing for Penrith’s feeder club the St Mary’s Cougars in the New South Wales Premier League before signing with Newcastle for the 2005 season.
After existing on a diet of more premier league football, he made his NRL debut against Cronulla in 2007, playing 10 games that year and going on to appear 19 times last year, mostly as a starting prop.
Royal and his wife Kylie – they met in the Army – have two pre-school boys Matarae and Tumai.
JESSE ROYAL
Born: March 22, 1980
Birthplace: Hamilton, NZ
Position: Prop
Height: 193cm
Weight: 107kg
Junior Clubs: Ngaruawahia Panthers, Turangawaewae
Other Clubs: Linton Cobras (Manawatu), Central Falcons (Bartercard Cup)
NRL Clubs: Penrith Panthers 2004, Newcastle Knights 2005-2008
NRL Debut: Newcastle v Cronulla, EnerbyAustralia Stadium, April 30, 2007
(Round 7)
NRL Career: Newcastle Knights: 29 games, 2007-2008
NRL Points: 12 (3 tries)
Representative: New Zealand A 2003
Educated: Ngaruawahia High School
The 28-year-old from Ngaruawahia might have thought his NRL days were over when he ended a 29-game first-grade career with the Knights at the end of the 2008 season.
He was working in the coalmines in Newcastle and eyeing a campaign with local club Kurri Kurri this year but, in a matter of days, the 1.93m, 107kg front rower will leave the mines behind as he looks to extend his top-grade career with his third NRL club.
Due to arrive in Auckland this weekend, Royal had been on the Vodafone Warriors’ radar.
“With Ruben (Wiki) finishing up last year, we obviously lost so much experience in the front row,” said Vodafone Warriors chief executive Wayne Scurrah.
“We’ve got some really talented young players coming through like Russell Packer, Leeson Ah Mau and Mataupu Poching but we were lacking some depth in terms of more seasoned players.
“We were looking for someone to fill the gap left by Ruben and work alongside Steve (Price), Sam (Rapira) and Evarn (Tuimavave). Another factor in signing Jesse now is Evarn’s neck injury which will keep him on the sideline for the start of the season.
“We’re delighted to secure Jesse and equally pleased that we’re able to bring another New Zealand player home.”
Jesse Te Ahukaramu Royal was a chef in the New Zealand Army based at Linton when he resigned in 2003 to take up a contract with the Penrith Panthers. After starting out with the Ngaruawahia Panthers and Turangawaewae in his junior days, he played with the Linton Cobras in the Manawatu competition and turned out for the Central Falcons in the Bartercard Cup in 2003. That year Royal was selected in the New Zealand A side.
He spent the 2004 season playing for Penrith’s feeder club the St Mary’s Cougars in the New South Wales Premier League before signing with Newcastle for the 2005 season.
After existing on a diet of more premier league football, he made his NRL debut against Cronulla in 2007, playing 10 games that year and going on to appear 19 times last year, mostly as a starting prop.
Royal and his wife Kylie – they met in the Army – have two pre-school boys Matarae and Tumai.
JESSE ROYAL
Born: March 22, 1980
Birthplace: Hamilton, NZ
Position: Prop
Height: 193cm
Weight: 107kg
Junior Clubs: Ngaruawahia Panthers, Turangawaewae
Other Clubs: Linton Cobras (Manawatu), Central Falcons (Bartercard Cup)
NRL Clubs: Penrith Panthers 2004, Newcastle Knights 2005-2008
NRL Debut: Newcastle v Cronulla, EnerbyAustralia Stadium, April 30, 2007
(Round 7)
NRL Career: Newcastle Knights: 29 games, 2007-2008
NRL Points: 12 (3 tries)
Representative: New Zealand A 2003
Educated: Ngaruawahia High School
SHORTLISTS ANNOUNCED FOR THE 2009 FOOTBALL LEAGUE AWARDS
The Football League has announced the full shortlists for seven award categories in the 2009 Football League Awards incorporating FourFourTwo’s Top 50 Football League Players.
A total of 240 entries were received from clubs across all three divisions, a 22% increase on entries from the previous year. This year 32 clubs have been shortlisted for Awards, with eight clubs earning more than one entry in the shortlists.
The winners will be announced at the fourth annual Football League Awards which will take place at Grosvenor House on Park Lane on Sunday 29th March 2009.
Expert judging panels were assembled for each category with the process of evaluating each entry taking place at The Football League headquarters on 28th and 29th January.
The shortlists for the seven award categories are:
Family Club of the Year – Championship
Norwich City
Plymouth Argyle
Reading
Wolverhampton Wanderers
Family Club of the Year – League 1
Milton Keynes Dons
Southend United
Swindon Town
Yeovil Town
Family Club of the Year – League 2
AFC Bournemouth
Bury
Shrewsbury Town
Wycombe Wanderers
Perform Best Fan Marketing Campaign
Derby County with “Fans First Initiative”
Huddersfield Town with “The £100 Season Ticket and the Centenary”
Leeds United with “The Greatest Fans the world has ever Seen”
Nottingham Forest with “The Forest Super Sevens”
Preston North End with “Lilywhites Go Green”
Wycombe Wanderers with “Season Ticket Holders “Buddy” Scheme”
Sky Digital Media Best Digital Communication
Cardiff City with “Digital Media Platform – Enjoy the Match”
Milton Keynes Dons with “The Dons Show on the Road”
Preston North End with “Centre Stage”
Reading with “Digital Communication Platform”
Wycombe Wanderers with “Countdown to Kick-Off (C2K)”
Press Association Sport Best Matchday Programme
Burnley with “Claret and You”
Bristol City with “Well Red”
Preston North End with “Matchday Programme”
Leicester City with “City”
Watford with “The Official Matchday Magazine”
Community Club of the Year – Championship
Burnley
Charlton Athletic
Sheffield United
Watford
Wolverhampton Wanderers
Community Club of the Year – League 1
Brighton and Hove Albion
Colchester United
Leyton Orient
Oldham Athletic
Southend United
Community Club of the Year – League 2
Bradford City
Brentford
Rochdale
Rotherham United
Wycombe Wanderers
PFA Player in the Community
Darren Moore, Barnsley
Graeme Murty, Reading
Julian Bennett, Nottingham Forest
Championship Manager Young Apprentice of the Year - Championship
Sean Scannell, Crystal Palace
Oscar Gobern, Southampton
Ross Jenkins, Watford
Championship Manager Young Apprentice of the Year - League 1
Tom Aldred, Carlisle United
Daniel Powell, Milton Keynes Dons
Stuart O’Keefe, Southend United
Championship Manager Young Apprentice of the Year - League 2
Robin Nicholls, Brentford
George Bowyer, Rochdale
Matthew Phillips, Wycombe Wanderers
The Football League Awards will, once again, recognise footballing excellence on and off the field, with clubs and players honoured alongside fans. There will be 20 award categories in total, including a range of football awards and industry-specific honours.
To find out more about The Football League Awards, and for a full list of Award categories, please visit www.footballleagueawards.com
A total of 240 entries were received from clubs across all three divisions, a 22% increase on entries from the previous year. This year 32 clubs have been shortlisted for Awards, with eight clubs earning more than one entry in the shortlists.
The winners will be announced at the fourth annual Football League Awards which will take place at Grosvenor House on Park Lane on Sunday 29th March 2009.
Expert judging panels were assembled for each category with the process of evaluating each entry taking place at The Football League headquarters on 28th and 29th January.
The shortlists for the seven award categories are:
Family Club of the Year – Championship
Norwich City
Plymouth Argyle
Reading
Wolverhampton Wanderers
Family Club of the Year – League 1
Milton Keynes Dons
Southend United
Swindon Town
Yeovil Town
Family Club of the Year – League 2
AFC Bournemouth
Bury
Shrewsbury Town
Wycombe Wanderers
Perform Best Fan Marketing Campaign
Derby County with “Fans First Initiative”
Huddersfield Town with “The £100 Season Ticket and the Centenary”
Leeds United with “The Greatest Fans the world has ever Seen”
Nottingham Forest with “The Forest Super Sevens”
Preston North End with “Lilywhites Go Green”
Wycombe Wanderers with “Season Ticket Holders “Buddy” Scheme”
Sky Digital Media Best Digital Communication
Cardiff City with “Digital Media Platform – Enjoy the Match”
Milton Keynes Dons with “The Dons Show on the Road”
Preston North End with “Centre Stage”
Reading with “Digital Communication Platform”
Wycombe Wanderers with “Countdown to Kick-Off (C2K)”
Press Association Sport Best Matchday Programme
Burnley with “Claret and You”
Bristol City with “Well Red”
Preston North End with “Matchday Programme”
Leicester City with “City”
Watford with “The Official Matchday Magazine”
Community Club of the Year – Championship
Burnley
Charlton Athletic
Sheffield United
Watford
Wolverhampton Wanderers
Community Club of the Year – League 1
Brighton and Hove Albion
Colchester United
Leyton Orient
Oldham Athletic
Southend United
Community Club of the Year – League 2
Bradford City
Brentford
Rochdale
Rotherham United
Wycombe Wanderers
PFA Player in the Community
Darren Moore, Barnsley
Graeme Murty, Reading
Julian Bennett, Nottingham Forest
Championship Manager Young Apprentice of the Year - Championship
Sean Scannell, Crystal Palace
Oscar Gobern, Southampton
Ross Jenkins, Watford
Championship Manager Young Apprentice of the Year - League 1
Tom Aldred, Carlisle United
Daniel Powell, Milton Keynes Dons
Stuart O’Keefe, Southend United
Championship Manager Young Apprentice of the Year - League 2
Robin Nicholls, Brentford
George Bowyer, Rochdale
Matthew Phillips, Wycombe Wanderers
The Football League Awards will, once again, recognise footballing excellence on and off the field, with clubs and players honoured alongside fans. There will be 20 award categories in total, including a range of football awards and industry-specific honours.
To find out more about The Football League Awards, and for a full list of Award categories, please visit www.footballleagueawards.com
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Prince to take on more predators in Darwin
The Jetstar Gold Coast Titans will unleash a host of stars in Darwin for Saturday night’s pre-season trial match against Cronulla.
In what shapes as a full-scale dress rehearsal for the Jetstar Titans’ round one match against Newcastle at Skilled Park on March 15, coach John Cartwright today named co-captains Scott Prince and Luke Bailey in a strong 21-man squad.
Also included in the squad are Prince’s Australian World Cup teammate Anthony Laffranchi and experienced campaigners Preston Campbell and Mat Rogers.
For Prince, it will mark his second visit to Darwin in the past fortnight after he and other Titans players took part in the NRL’s One Community Carnival.
It was during his visit to Darwin that Prince took on a giant saltwater crocodile at an entertainment park called Crocosaurus Cove.
“If I get the opportunity to do that again, I’d be more than happy to step in the tank and go round two with it,’’ joked Prince of Burt the crocodile.
“I think it’s great that there’s some rugby league lovers up there. Even the Northern Territory team is called the Northern Territory Titans so it’s got a good feel about it already.
“Speaking to a few of the locals up there, they are looking forward to it. There’s a heap of people even flying in from Nhulunbuy Gove and Groote Eylandt as well.
“There’s so many league supporters who are excited and can’t wait for the match.’’
Cartwright said Saturday night’s clash against the Sharks would be an important part of the Titans’ build-up before kick-off for season 2009.
“It will be a dress rehearsal for the Newcastle game. We want to get as much out of this game as we can,’’ said Cartwright.
“It’ll be tough conditions up there in Darwin, I’d imagine it’ll be hot and greasy and it’ll be a good arena for us to experience big match game time before the Newcastle game.’’
Cartwright said the Jetstar Titans were exciting to be taking the game of rugby league to the Northern Territory.
“I’m not sure what to expect but I’d imagine there will be a big crowd. I played up there a few years ago, it’s a great town and whatever we can do to promote the game up there we’re more than happy to do,’’ he said.
A handful of senior players will also travel to Rockhampton to play with the Jetstar Titans’ under-20s NYC team against the Central Comets Queensland Cup side.
In what shapes as a full-scale dress rehearsal for the Jetstar Titans’ round one match against Newcastle at Skilled Park on March 15, coach John Cartwright today named co-captains Scott Prince and Luke Bailey in a strong 21-man squad.
Also included in the squad are Prince’s Australian World Cup teammate Anthony Laffranchi and experienced campaigners Preston Campbell and Mat Rogers.
For Prince, it will mark his second visit to Darwin in the past fortnight after he and other Titans players took part in the NRL’s One Community Carnival.
It was during his visit to Darwin that Prince took on a giant saltwater crocodile at an entertainment park called Crocosaurus Cove.
“If I get the opportunity to do that again, I’d be more than happy to step in the tank and go round two with it,’’ joked Prince of Burt the crocodile.
“I think it’s great that there’s some rugby league lovers up there. Even the Northern Territory team is called the Northern Territory Titans so it’s got a good feel about it already.
“Speaking to a few of the locals up there, they are looking forward to it. There’s a heap of people even flying in from Nhulunbuy Gove and Groote Eylandt as well.
“There’s so many league supporters who are excited and can’t wait for the match.’’
Cartwright said Saturday night’s clash against the Sharks would be an important part of the Titans’ build-up before kick-off for season 2009.
“It will be a dress rehearsal for the Newcastle game. We want to get as much out of this game as we can,’’ said Cartwright.
“It’ll be tough conditions up there in Darwin, I’d imagine it’ll be hot and greasy and it’ll be a good arena for us to experience big match game time before the Newcastle game.’’
Cartwright said the Jetstar Titans were exciting to be taking the game of rugby league to the Northern Territory.
“I’m not sure what to expect but I’d imagine there will be a big crowd. I played up there a few years ago, it’s a great town and whatever we can do to promote the game up there we’re more than happy to do,’’ he said.
A handful of senior players will also travel to Rockhampton to play with the Jetstar Titans’ under-20s NYC team against the Central Comets Queensland Cup side.
HOPES HIGH FOR HOME SUCCESS AT BALLANTINE’S CHAMPIONSHIP
Korea’s rising stars will be ready to take on the world’s best when the golf-mad nation hosts the second Ballantine’s Championship.
The €2.1 million showpiece represents the perfect chance for Korean players to showcase their skills on the big stage.
The country’s golf has never been stronger – seven of Asia’s top 20 players in the Official World Golf Rankings are from Korea and the country provided four different winners on the Asian Tour last year.
And that means hopes will be high for a home success when the Ballantine’s Championship – co-sanctioned by the Asian and European Tours and the Korea PGA – is held at Pinx Golf Club on Jeju island from April 23-26.
Korea’s growing presence on the international golf scene is a source of pride for the Korea PGA, which runs a burgeoning, ultra-competitive domestic tour where players cut their teeth before graduating to the international game.
“The Korean Tour has grown to about 20 tournaments a year and has been hugely instrumental in helping players to improve their skills and confidence,” reveals KPGA general manager Park Ho Yoon.
“The result is that we have many young and talented Korean players who have been playing from an early age and have been trained in well-structured and systematic programmes.
“They also have a tremendous work ethic. They practice hard to reach their goals and are keen to play overseas. They want to reach the international tours.”
The KPGA has an impressive 4,753 professional players on its books – a figure comprising 870 full-time pros, 3,401 semi-pros and 482 teaching pros.
And the next generation is already on its way, with 2,786 players – almost a third of them female – registered with the Korean Junior Golfers’ Association.
Staging an event like the Ballantine’s Championship – which last year became the first European Tour event to be held in Korea – helps swell these numbers as Korea hosts some of the world’s top players.
Already confirmed for the 2009 tournament are three-time Major winner Ernie Els, world No.6 Henrik Stenson, world No.12 Lee Westwood and defending champion Graeme McDowell.
Europe’s newly appointed Ryder Cup captain, Colin Montgomerie – the most prolific British winner on the European Tour with an astonishing 31 titles – is also in the line-up together with former Masters champion Fred Couples.
The Ballantine’s Championship represents a unique chance for Korea’s homegrown players to compete against the world’s elite, with at least 30 starting slots in the full field of 156 reserved for KPGA players – an increase from last year’s figure of 25.
With proven Korean winners on the Asian Tour and a large KPGA contingent teeing off at Pinx, fans will have plenty of chance to cheer their homegrown heroes during the week.
Asian Tour executive chairman Kyi Hla Han is upbeat about the chances of a home victory.
“Last year was tremendous for Korean golf as Mo Joong Kyung, Bae Sang Moon, Hwang Inn Choon and Noh Seung Yul won titles on the Asian Tour, which is a great reflection of the growing standard of golf in Korea,” says Han.
“The playing opportunities that the Asian Tour has created have inevitably helped give them an edge and it will be a great story if one of the Koreans goes on to win the Ballantine's Championship this year.
“It will not surprise me if this happens as there is enough strength in depth in Korean golf now.
“Previously, Korean players were reluctant to leave their comfort zone to compete across Asia but we've seen more and more young Korean players venturing to the region, learning to play in different environments and enjoying success on the Asian Tour.”
KPGA general manager Park admits it will be tough for a Korean player to triumph in the Ballantine’s Championship, but says it is certainly possible.
“Jeju is famous for its windy conditions and some of the Korean golfers will not have played there before,” he points out.
“The international players, on the other hand, have experienced many different climates on tour, so I don’t think home advantage will be particularly strong.
“However, around 70 per cent of the Korean players in the tournament will be in their 20s – they are the new generation and they have done much to improve the quality of Korean golf.
“With their youthfulness and competitive attitude, they will be a force. I think there could be a winner among them.”
The €2.1 million showpiece represents the perfect chance for Korean players to showcase their skills on the big stage.
The country’s golf has never been stronger – seven of Asia’s top 20 players in the Official World Golf Rankings are from Korea and the country provided four different winners on the Asian Tour last year.
And that means hopes will be high for a home success when the Ballantine’s Championship – co-sanctioned by the Asian and European Tours and the Korea PGA – is held at Pinx Golf Club on Jeju island from April 23-26.
Korea’s growing presence on the international golf scene is a source of pride for the Korea PGA, which runs a burgeoning, ultra-competitive domestic tour where players cut their teeth before graduating to the international game.
“The Korean Tour has grown to about 20 tournaments a year and has been hugely instrumental in helping players to improve their skills and confidence,” reveals KPGA general manager Park Ho Yoon.
“The result is that we have many young and talented Korean players who have been playing from an early age and have been trained in well-structured and systematic programmes.
“They also have a tremendous work ethic. They practice hard to reach their goals and are keen to play overseas. They want to reach the international tours.”
The KPGA has an impressive 4,753 professional players on its books – a figure comprising 870 full-time pros, 3,401 semi-pros and 482 teaching pros.
And the next generation is already on its way, with 2,786 players – almost a third of them female – registered with the Korean Junior Golfers’ Association.
Staging an event like the Ballantine’s Championship – which last year became the first European Tour event to be held in Korea – helps swell these numbers as Korea hosts some of the world’s top players.
Already confirmed for the 2009 tournament are three-time Major winner Ernie Els, world No.6 Henrik Stenson, world No.12 Lee Westwood and defending champion Graeme McDowell.
Europe’s newly appointed Ryder Cup captain, Colin Montgomerie – the most prolific British winner on the European Tour with an astonishing 31 titles – is also in the line-up together with former Masters champion Fred Couples.
The Ballantine’s Championship represents a unique chance for Korea’s homegrown players to compete against the world’s elite, with at least 30 starting slots in the full field of 156 reserved for KPGA players – an increase from last year’s figure of 25.
With proven Korean winners on the Asian Tour and a large KPGA contingent teeing off at Pinx, fans will have plenty of chance to cheer their homegrown heroes during the week.
Asian Tour executive chairman Kyi Hla Han is upbeat about the chances of a home victory.
“Last year was tremendous for Korean golf as Mo Joong Kyung, Bae Sang Moon, Hwang Inn Choon and Noh Seung Yul won titles on the Asian Tour, which is a great reflection of the growing standard of golf in Korea,” says Han.
“The playing opportunities that the Asian Tour has created have inevitably helped give them an edge and it will be a great story if one of the Koreans goes on to win the Ballantine's Championship this year.
“It will not surprise me if this happens as there is enough strength in depth in Korean golf now.
“Previously, Korean players were reluctant to leave their comfort zone to compete across Asia but we've seen more and more young Korean players venturing to the region, learning to play in different environments and enjoying success on the Asian Tour.”
KPGA general manager Park admits it will be tough for a Korean player to triumph in the Ballantine’s Championship, but says it is certainly possible.
“Jeju is famous for its windy conditions and some of the Korean golfers will not have played there before,” he points out.
“The international players, on the other hand, have experienced many different climates on tour, so I don’t think home advantage will be particularly strong.
“However, around 70 per cent of the Korean players in the tournament will be in their 20s – they are the new generation and they have done much to improve the quality of Korean golf.
“With their youthfulness and competitive attitude, they will be a force. I think there could be a winner among them.”
Nation-wide Open Day a great success on the weekend
For thousands of New Zealanders, Valentines weekend roses came in the form of fluffy yellow balls.
More than 150 tennis clubs around the country participated in the Come Play! Tennis Open Day, on the weekend 14 -15 February.
Everyone who has ever lifted a tennis racquet – or has ever wanted to – was welcome to come along and have a hit.
And Kiwis everywhere responded in fine form!
At Thorndon Tennis Club in Wellington, 400 people came along at various times to watch and encourage coach Andy Wheeler who was attempting the break the world record for the highest number of consecutive tennis lessons, starting at 7am on Saturday 14 February, and going through the night.
In the end, Andy was on court for 30 hours! Even the video cameraman fell asleep at his tripod, sometime around 4am. Fortunately, at the time, Andy had two top tennis players belting balls back at him – and this, he said, helped keep him awake.
Auckland’s Herne Bay Club turned the event into a Gala Day, with celebrity doubles matches featuring Stacey Jones, NZ kiwi league legend, James McOnie from The Crowd Goes Wild, Brendan Bell - current club champion, Dame Susan Devoy and Olivia Isbey- '08 U14 NZ runner up, member of junior team to tour China last year -
and commentated by former world-ranked NZ tennis player TV One commentator David Mustard. The tennis courts were also used for other events, such as tug o’ wars!
Wellington Tennis Club managed to entice runners away from the Round the Bays run, to have a quick hit on their courts!
For Manurewa Tennis Club, the Come Play! Open Day coincided with their 100th anniversary.
All participating clubs reported a great influx of potential new members on the day, with many family groups signing up as members right away.
The Come Play! Tennis Open Day was a nationwide initiative from Tennis New Zealand, with help from the six regional tennis associations, and a team of tennis Regional Development Managers.
The event was supported by Youthtown, HEAD, Prince, Slazenger, Tiger Turf and Wilson.
More than 150 tennis clubs around the country participated in the Come Play! Tennis Open Day, on the weekend 14 -15 February.
Everyone who has ever lifted a tennis racquet – or has ever wanted to – was welcome to come along and have a hit.
And Kiwis everywhere responded in fine form!
At Thorndon Tennis Club in Wellington, 400 people came along at various times to watch and encourage coach Andy Wheeler who was attempting the break the world record for the highest number of consecutive tennis lessons, starting at 7am on Saturday 14 February, and going through the night.
In the end, Andy was on court for 30 hours! Even the video cameraman fell asleep at his tripod, sometime around 4am. Fortunately, at the time, Andy had two top tennis players belting balls back at him – and this, he said, helped keep him awake.
Auckland’s Herne Bay Club turned the event into a Gala Day, with celebrity doubles matches featuring Stacey Jones, NZ kiwi league legend, James McOnie from The Crowd Goes Wild, Brendan Bell - current club champion, Dame Susan Devoy and Olivia Isbey- '08 U14 NZ runner up, member of junior team to tour China last year -
and commentated by former world-ranked NZ tennis player TV One commentator David Mustard. The tennis courts were also used for other events, such as tug o’ wars!
Wellington Tennis Club managed to entice runners away from the Round the Bays run, to have a quick hit on their courts!
For Manurewa Tennis Club, the Come Play! Open Day coincided with their 100th anniversary.
All participating clubs reported a great influx of potential new members on the day, with many family groups signing up as members right away.
The Come Play! Tennis Open Day was a nationwide initiative from Tennis New Zealand, with help from the six regional tennis associations, and a team of tennis Regional Development Managers.
The event was supported by Youthtown, HEAD, Prince, Slazenger, Tiger Turf and Wilson.
Bundaberg Red Cup
Rugby League fans throughout Sydney can look forward to an even better game day experience at their local ground in 2009 following the release of the NSW Cup and Bundaberg Red Cup draws.
The state’s premier open-aged competition, the NSW Cup, this year features 11 teams including newcomers the Shellharbour Dragons.
Fans can expect to see their first-grade heroes regularly competing for NSW Cup sides when not named in their respective NRL sides.
Shellharbour have made the transition from the Bundaberg Red Cup (formerly Jim Beam Cup).
The Bundaberg Red Cup features 10 teams including the WA Reds, who are set to build on a highly successful inaugural year of competition in 2008 and strengthen the game’s link with the west.
Other changes to the competitions include a joint venture between the Sydney Bulls and Bulldogs NRL club competing in both competitions as the Bankstown City Bulls, while the Bundaberg Red Cup welcomes Penrith Brothers to its ranks.
Plans for a heritage match at Birchgrove Oval are in place following the success of Balmain and Western Suburbs’ Centenary clash in April last year.
NSW Rugby League General Manager Geoff Carr said the NSW Cup and Bundaberg Red Cup’s appeal in 2009 would lie in its game-day experience for fans.
“Our competitions offer families an affordable way to see some of the best Rugby League players and teams the state has to offer,” Carr said.
“We remain one of the only competitions in the country featuring several foundation Rugby League clubs that have been competing for 100 years.
“On any weekend fans can enjoy top level Rugby League at nostalgic suburban locations such as Henson Park or picturesque North Sydney Oval.”
Plans to introduce a consistent pricing and match kick-off policy across all venues would make going to the footy even more affordable and convenient, Carr said.
The state’s premier open-aged competition, the NSW Cup, this year features 11 teams including newcomers the Shellharbour Dragons.
Fans can expect to see their first-grade heroes regularly competing for NSW Cup sides when not named in their respective NRL sides.
Shellharbour have made the transition from the Bundaberg Red Cup (formerly Jim Beam Cup).
The Bundaberg Red Cup features 10 teams including the WA Reds, who are set to build on a highly successful inaugural year of competition in 2008 and strengthen the game’s link with the west.
Other changes to the competitions include a joint venture between the Sydney Bulls and Bulldogs NRL club competing in both competitions as the Bankstown City Bulls, while the Bundaberg Red Cup welcomes Penrith Brothers to its ranks.
Plans for a heritage match at Birchgrove Oval are in place following the success of Balmain and Western Suburbs’ Centenary clash in April last year.
NSW Rugby League General Manager Geoff Carr said the NSW Cup and Bundaberg Red Cup’s appeal in 2009 would lie in its game-day experience for fans.
“Our competitions offer families an affordable way to see some of the best Rugby League players and teams the state has to offer,” Carr said.
“We remain one of the only competitions in the country featuring several foundation Rugby League clubs that have been competing for 100 years.
“On any weekend fans can enjoy top level Rugby League at nostalgic suburban locations such as Henson Park or picturesque North Sydney Oval.”
Plans to introduce a consistent pricing and match kick-off policy across all venues would make going to the footy even more affordable and convenient, Carr said.
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