Earlier today, Slovakia's Ivo Klec won a marathon match over New Zealander Daniel King-Turner, at the $50,000 Futures Tournament in Maccabi, Australia.
Klec outlasted King-Turner 7-6(4) 4-6 7-6(5) in a match that took over two hours and 45 minutes.
The Slovakian called for a medical time-out in the final set, then continued to clinch the final set in a tie-breaker.
This epic match denied King-Turner a spot in the quarter-finals of this highly competitive tournament.
King-Turner will now return home to join the Greymouth Petroleum NZ Davis Cup Team, to prepare for our first tie of 2009, against Malaysia at the Albany Tennis Centre, in North Shore City, 6-8 March.
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Referee appointments for the final round of official NRL trial matches
Saturday, February 28:
Titans v Warriors, Oakes Oval, Lismore, 7.30pm
- Jared Maxwell and Adam Devcich
Cowboys v Panthers, Barlow Park, Cairns, 7.30pm
- Tony De Las Heras and Phil Haines
Eels v Roosters, Campbelltown Sports Stadium, 7.30pm
- Ashley Klein and Alan Shortall
Knights v Sharks, Baddeley Park, Cessnock, 7.30pm
- Steve Lyons and Brett Suttor
Broncos v Storm, Stockland Park, Kawana, 7.45pm.
- Matt Cecchin and Gerard Sutton
Raiders v Bulldogs, Meakin Park, Brisbane, 8pm
- Ben Cummins and Chris James
Charity Shield: Rabbitohs v Dragons, ANZ Stadium, 8pm
- Tony Archer and Gavin Badger – Video Referee Steve Clark
*Please note, all kick-off times are local times.
Titans v Warriors, Oakes Oval, Lismore, 7.30pm
- Jared Maxwell and Adam Devcich
Cowboys v Panthers, Barlow Park, Cairns, 7.30pm
- Tony De Las Heras and Phil Haines
Eels v Roosters, Campbelltown Sports Stadium, 7.30pm
- Ashley Klein and Alan Shortall
Knights v Sharks, Baddeley Park, Cessnock, 7.30pm
- Steve Lyons and Brett Suttor
Broncos v Storm, Stockland Park, Kawana, 7.45pm.
- Matt Cecchin and Gerard Sutton
Raiders v Bulldogs, Meakin Park, Brisbane, 8pm
- Ben Cummins and Chris James
Charity Shield: Rabbitohs v Dragons, ANZ Stadium, 8pm
- Tony Archer and Gavin Badger – Video Referee Steve Clark
*Please note, all kick-off times are local times.
Worrall Joins Shrews On Loan
AVID Worrall has today joined League Two high-fliers Shrewsbury Town on an initial 28-day loan.
The 18-year-old midfielder has been restricted to three reserves appearances for the Baggies this term.
His spell with the Shrews will include games against Macclesfield, Exeter, Notts County, Aldershot, Gillingham and Morecambe.
Worrall becomes the third Albion youngster to move to the Pro-Star Stadium on loan this term and will link up with Hawthorns team-mate Luke Daniels.
Joss Labadie's spell was cruelly cut short in January when he fractured his fifth metatarsal in his first game for Town.
The 18-year-old midfielder has been restricted to three reserves appearances for the Baggies this term.
His spell with the Shrews will include games against Macclesfield, Exeter, Notts County, Aldershot, Gillingham and Morecambe.
Worrall becomes the third Albion youngster to move to the Pro-Star Stadium on loan this term and will link up with Hawthorns team-mate Luke Daniels.
Joss Labadie's spell was cruelly cut short in January when he fractured his fifth metatarsal in his first game for Town.
Samit Patel Wins Sports Personality Of The Year At The British Asian Sports Awards
Samit Patel wins Sports Personality of the Year at the British Asian Sports Awards
The winners of the British Asian Sports Awards were revealed at a gala event held at the Grosvenor House Hotel, London on Saturday 21st February. The coveted Sports Personality of the year award went to cricketer Samit Patel.
The award was collected by Mr Patel, father of Samit Patel. Samit is currently representing England in the West Indies. Mr. Patel was thrilled to accept the Sports Personality of the Year Award for Samit: “Samit was up against some very talented people and he is very honoured to have won the award. Being chosen by the public and a panel of expert judges makes this award a great personal achievement for him.”
The Sports Personality of the Year award was presented by cricketer Michael Vaughan and Salman Amin the president of UK’s largest FMCG brands, PepsiCo UK.
Other winners on the night included:
Salil Navapurkar, aged 9 from Northwood in Middlesex for Young Sports Personality of the Year (under 10)
Manisha Chowdhary, aged 16 from Pinner in Middlesex for Junior Sports Personality of the Year (under 18, female)
Joshua Sharma, aged 14 from Swindon for Junior Sports Personality of the Year (under 18, male)
Sunny Hira, aged 25 from Birmingham for Most Up and Coming Sports Personality of the Year
Barinder Singh, aged 25 from Leicester for Outstanding Achievement Award
Jagtar Singh Johal, aged 41 from Leicester for Coach of the Year
Samit Patel, aged 24 from Nottingham for The British Asian Sports Awards Sports Personality of Surinder Arora for Community Business in Sport
Mahendra Singh Dhoni for International Sports Personality of the Year
Vijay Amritraj for Lifetime Achievement Award
Former England cricketer and BASA brand Ambassador Mark Ramprakash, who was honoured with a champagne moment for scoring one-hundred 100’s in first class cricket describes the event, “Today’s ceremony was spectacular! I am truly humbled to have received this award for what I would describe as the most cherished moment in my cricketing career. I would also like to give my heartfelt congratulations to all the winners and their proud parents.”
The event also announced the British Asian Sports Awards and Change4Life partnership that will result in a new identity for the awards ceremony in 2010. Neeraj Arora, Senior Vice President of Sony Entertainment Television Asia, the organiser of the award ceremony was joined by a spokesperson from the Change4Life campaign to unveil the new look that will continue to encourage youth to take up physical activity but will also encourage them to think about the type of food they eat and how to lead a healthier lifestyle.
Neeraj Arora feels that the new partnership is a positive step forward in making the British Asian community aware of dangers of a sedentary lifestyle, “This year’s awards ceremony was an overwhelming success, and the turn-out has exceeded my expectations. I couldn’t be happier with the show of support we’ve had this year and hope it carries on in the years to come. By partnering with Change4Life, our awards have only gone from strength to strength. The Change4Life message is one that BASA endorses whole-heartedly.”
The shortlisted nominees and winners were joined by a host of industry figures, national and international celebrities and leading sports icons including boxing promoters Frank Maloney and Frank Warren, the skipper of the first all female crew to sail around the world in the Whitbread Round The World Yacht Race, Tracy Edwards (MBE), Olympic gold medal winner Denise Lewis, Dragon’s Den panellist and business entrepreneur James Caan and ex-footballer Peter Reid.
Performances on the night were provided by Escala, Shola Ama, Mutya Buena, Soul ll Soul, Kunal Ganjawalla and Lemar. The event shall be broadcast globally on Sony Entertainment Television Asia in early April 2009.
The proceeds that were raised from the charity auction were all donated to The Anthony Nolan Trust, BASAs nominated charity for this year’s awards ceremony.
The winners of the British Asian Sports Awards were revealed at a gala event held at the Grosvenor House Hotel, London on Saturday 21st February. The coveted Sports Personality of the year award went to cricketer Samit Patel.
The award was collected by Mr Patel, father of Samit Patel. Samit is currently representing England in the West Indies. Mr. Patel was thrilled to accept the Sports Personality of the Year Award for Samit: “Samit was up against some very talented people and he is very honoured to have won the award. Being chosen by the public and a panel of expert judges makes this award a great personal achievement for him.”
The Sports Personality of the Year award was presented by cricketer Michael Vaughan and Salman Amin the president of UK’s largest FMCG brands, PepsiCo UK.
Other winners on the night included:
Salil Navapurkar, aged 9 from Northwood in Middlesex for Young Sports Personality of the Year (under 10)
Manisha Chowdhary, aged 16 from Pinner in Middlesex for Junior Sports Personality of the Year (under 18, female)
Joshua Sharma, aged 14 from Swindon for Junior Sports Personality of the Year (under 18, male)
Sunny Hira, aged 25 from Birmingham for Most Up and Coming Sports Personality of the Year
Barinder Singh, aged 25 from Leicester for Outstanding Achievement Award
Jagtar Singh Johal, aged 41 from Leicester for Coach of the Year
Samit Patel, aged 24 from Nottingham for The British Asian Sports Awards Sports Personality of Surinder Arora for Community Business in Sport
Mahendra Singh Dhoni for International Sports Personality of the Year
Vijay Amritraj for Lifetime Achievement Award
Former England cricketer and BASA brand Ambassador Mark Ramprakash, who was honoured with a champagne moment for scoring one-hundred 100’s in first class cricket describes the event, “Today’s ceremony was spectacular! I am truly humbled to have received this award for what I would describe as the most cherished moment in my cricketing career. I would also like to give my heartfelt congratulations to all the winners and their proud parents.”
The event also announced the British Asian Sports Awards and Change4Life partnership that will result in a new identity for the awards ceremony in 2010. Neeraj Arora, Senior Vice President of Sony Entertainment Television Asia, the organiser of the award ceremony was joined by a spokesperson from the Change4Life campaign to unveil the new look that will continue to encourage youth to take up physical activity but will also encourage them to think about the type of food they eat and how to lead a healthier lifestyle.
Neeraj Arora feels that the new partnership is a positive step forward in making the British Asian community aware of dangers of a sedentary lifestyle, “This year’s awards ceremony was an overwhelming success, and the turn-out has exceeded my expectations. I couldn’t be happier with the show of support we’ve had this year and hope it carries on in the years to come. By partnering with Change4Life, our awards have only gone from strength to strength. The Change4Life message is one that BASA endorses whole-heartedly.”
The shortlisted nominees and winners were joined by a host of industry figures, national and international celebrities and leading sports icons including boxing promoters Frank Maloney and Frank Warren, the skipper of the first all female crew to sail around the world in the Whitbread Round The World Yacht Race, Tracy Edwards (MBE), Olympic gold medal winner Denise Lewis, Dragon’s Den panellist and business entrepreneur James Caan and ex-footballer Peter Reid.
Performances on the night were provided by Escala, Shola Ama, Mutya Buena, Soul ll Soul, Kunal Ganjawalla and Lemar. The event shall be broadcast globally on Sony Entertainment Television Asia in early April 2009.
The proceeds that were raised from the charity auction were all donated to The Anthony Nolan Trust, BASAs nominated charity for this year’s awards ceremony.
Mills to play in Wellington Masters International game
BLACKCAPS bowler Kyle Mills will play for the Samsung NZCPA Masters against the ACA Masters in the curtain-raiser to Friday's Twenty20 International, to help in regaining match fitness following injury.
Mills, who injured his Achilles Tendon during the BLACKCAPS' recent Australian tour, had hoped to return to match play in the domestic State Twenty20 competition. As his Auckland side did not qualify for Sunday's final, New Zealand Cricket approached the New Zealand Cricket Players Association to see if he could be accommodated in Friday's Twenty20 curtain-raiser match.
BLACKCAPS coach Andy Moles said Mills was recovering well and had been bowling in the nets. "It's important for him to get good match preparation, and we're pleased the NZCPA has been able to assist."
Samsung NZCPA player/manager Kerry Walmsley said “there is no problem accommodating NZC’s request and the addition of Mills to our team is going to add to what is already shaping as a very competitive match against the Australians”.
Mills, who injured his Achilles Tendon during the BLACKCAPS' recent Australian tour, had hoped to return to match play in the domestic State Twenty20 competition. As his Auckland side did not qualify for Sunday's final, New Zealand Cricket approached the New Zealand Cricket Players Association to see if he could be accommodated in Friday's Twenty20 curtain-raiser match.
BLACKCAPS coach Andy Moles said Mills was recovering well and had been bowling in the nets. "It's important for him to get good match preparation, and we're pleased the NZCPA has been able to assist."
Samsung NZCPA player/manager Kerry Walmsley said “there is no problem accommodating NZC’s request and the addition of Mills to our team is going to add to what is already shaping as a very competitive match against the Australians”.
Thorn back in starting line-up
Crusaders lock Brad Thorn comes back into the starting line-up for the Crusaders in their Rebel Sport Super 14 match against the Hurricanes at AMI Stadium on Friday night.
Thorn, who sat out last week’s loss to the Brumbies in Canberra with a heel injury, trained fully with the team today and will take his place in the second row alongside fellow All Black Ross Filipo.
Crusaders head coach Todd Blackadder said there was still a question mark over skipper Richie McCaw, who did not play last Saturday due to a concussion suffered in the first-round victory over the Chiefs.
Blackadder said a decision over McCaw’s availability would be made once test results came through this afternoon so he has remained bracketed with George Whitelock.
“Richie is looking good and feeling sharp and healthy but we won’t know for sure if he will play until this afternoon,” Blackadder said.
Halfback Andy Ellis, who sprained an ankle against the Brumbies last weekend, will not play against the Hurricanes after failing to get through training today.
Kahn Fotuali’i will wear the No9 jersey, with Tyson Keats, a wider training group member, coming on to the reserves bench.
Fullback Leon MacDonald is again unavailable for selection after injuring his shoulder against the Chiefs, but Blackadder said he was very close to being right and should be in the mix for next weekend’s match against the Highlanders in Dunedin.
Jason Macdonald, the Crusaders’ only draft player this season, comes in at hooker in place of Corey Flynn, who broke his left arm last week against the Brumbies.
The match against the Hurricanes provides several notable match-ups, the main one being Thomas Waldrom against his brother Scott, a fellow loose forward, who played one game for the Crusaders in 2004.
Thomas, who will be directly marking All Blacks No 8 Rodney So’oialo, said he was looking forward to the match which will be attended by his parents, Anne and Tony.
Thorn, who sat out last week’s loss to the Brumbies in Canberra with a heel injury, trained fully with the team today and will take his place in the second row alongside fellow All Black Ross Filipo.
Crusaders head coach Todd Blackadder said there was still a question mark over skipper Richie McCaw, who did not play last Saturday due to a concussion suffered in the first-round victory over the Chiefs.
Blackadder said a decision over McCaw’s availability would be made once test results came through this afternoon so he has remained bracketed with George Whitelock.
“Richie is looking good and feeling sharp and healthy but we won’t know for sure if he will play until this afternoon,” Blackadder said.
Halfback Andy Ellis, who sprained an ankle against the Brumbies last weekend, will not play against the Hurricanes after failing to get through training today.
Kahn Fotuali’i will wear the No9 jersey, with Tyson Keats, a wider training group member, coming on to the reserves bench.
Fullback Leon MacDonald is again unavailable for selection after injuring his shoulder against the Chiefs, but Blackadder said he was very close to being right and should be in the mix for next weekend’s match against the Highlanders in Dunedin.
Jason Macdonald, the Crusaders’ only draft player this season, comes in at hooker in place of Corey Flynn, who broke his left arm last week against the Brumbies.
The match against the Hurricanes provides several notable match-ups, the main one being Thomas Waldrom against his brother Scott, a fellow loose forward, who played one game for the Crusaders in 2004.
Thomas, who will be directly marking All Blacks No 8 Rodney So’oialo, said he was looking forward to the match which will be attended by his parents, Anne and Tony.
Outcome of Dane Coles misconduct hearing
Hurricanes player Dane Coles has been sanctioned by the New Zealand Rugby Union and suspended by his Hurricanes team management following his arrest in Paraparaumu over the weekend.
Coles was arrested and charged with disorderly behaviour on Saturday night.
Under the Collective Employment Agreement (CEA) between the NZRU and its professional players, a formal process takes place for investigating any incidents of misconduct.
NZRU General Manager Professional Rugby Neil Sorensen said, while Coles’ case was still before the courts, the NZRU and Hurricanes had decided to fast track that process and Coles appeared at a misconduct hearing at the NZRU today.
As a result, Coles has received the following sanctions:
• he has been fined $1000;
• he has been suspended for one match which means he will miss this weekend’s match against the Crusaders;
• he will have to undertake appropriate counselling for alcohol and behaviour management; and
• he has received a formal warning about future similar misconduct.
Coles was arrested and charged with disorderly behaviour on Saturday night.
Under the Collective Employment Agreement (CEA) between the NZRU and its professional players, a formal process takes place for investigating any incidents of misconduct.
NZRU General Manager Professional Rugby Neil Sorensen said, while Coles’ case was still before the courts, the NZRU and Hurricanes had decided to fast track that process and Coles appeared at a misconduct hearing at the NZRU today.
As a result, Coles has received the following sanctions:
• he has been fined $1000;
• he has been suspended for one match which means he will miss this weekend’s match against the Crusaders;
• he will have to undertake appropriate counselling for alcohol and behaviour management; and
• he has received a formal warning about future similar misconduct.
Auckland junior registration this weekend
Dirty boots and faces, mud-caked jerseys to wash, oranges at half time and the biggest smiles on little red faces every Saturday morning.
That's what club rugby is all about and its time to sign up for the 2009 season.
A host of Blues players will be on hand this weekend at various clubs across Auckland to meet young rugby players and help out with club registrations. Full club details can be found in The New Zealand Herald on Friday, or visit www.aucklandrugby.co.nz
And to really kick off the season and get the little rugby players raring to go, each player aged 12 and below that signs up to play rugby will receive a fantastic MILO rugby ball thanks to Auckland Rugby and Nestlé.
They will also get a bag full of MILO goodies to take home, and one lucky junior player will even have the chance to carry on the match ball before kick-off at a Blues home game at Eden Park.
“Rugby is a fantastic sport to introduce to your children and the whole family,” Blues head coach Pat Lam said.
“It’s a great way for them to get out there, get active and have heaps of fun making new friends. Nestlé have been outstanding long-term sponsors of junior registration and giving kids a brand new MILO ball when they register is the perfect way to kick-start their rugby career.”
Nestlé Corporate Services manager Maurice Gunnell said Nestlé was an ongoing sponsor of junior registration because they were committed to encouraging kids to get active.
“Nestlé is very pleased to sponsor Junior Rugby Registration with our MILO brand. We believe that encouraging children to be active and take part in organised sport is a vital part of a healthy Kiwi childhood,” he said.
That's what club rugby is all about and its time to sign up for the 2009 season.
A host of Blues players will be on hand this weekend at various clubs across Auckland to meet young rugby players and help out with club registrations. Full club details can be found in The New Zealand Herald on Friday, or visit www.aucklandrugby.co.nz
And to really kick off the season and get the little rugby players raring to go, each player aged 12 and below that signs up to play rugby will receive a fantastic MILO rugby ball thanks to Auckland Rugby and Nestlé.
They will also get a bag full of MILO goodies to take home, and one lucky junior player will even have the chance to carry on the match ball before kick-off at a Blues home game at Eden Park.
“Rugby is a fantastic sport to introduce to your children and the whole family,” Blues head coach Pat Lam said.
“It’s a great way for them to get out there, get active and have heaps of fun making new friends. Nestlé have been outstanding long-term sponsors of junior registration and giving kids a brand new MILO ball when they register is the perfect way to kick-start their rugby career.”
Nestlé Corporate Services manager Maurice Gunnell said Nestlé was an ongoing sponsor of junior registration because they were committed to encouraging kids to get active.
“Nestlé is very pleased to sponsor Junior Rugby Registration with our MILO brand. We believe that encouraging children to be active and take part in organised sport is a vital part of a healthy Kiwi childhood,” he said.
VODAFONE WARRIORS 2009 – NEW YEAR, NEW TEAM, NEW LOOK
‘New’ was the overriding theme as the Vodafone Warriors today launched their 15th season since being introduced to Australian rugby league’s premier competition in 1995.
Entering the 2009 campaign with the motto ‘new year, new team, new look’, the club formally introduced its new players and especially its new look from first-year apparel sponsor Canterbury of New Zealand.
A feature of the season-launching lunch at Mt Smart Stadium was a fashion parade involving several of the Vodafone Warriors’ NRL squad including captain Steve Price, Manu Vatuvei, Brent Tate, Wade McKinnon, Jerome Ropati and two of the new signings ex-Broncos Denan Kemp and Joel Moon.
Together with professional models they showed off the club’s new playing kit – both home and away strips – as well as the full range of Vodafone Warriors apparel. They also modelled Canterbury’s new range of street wear, which the players will regularly be kitted out in.
“It’s a huge day for us as a club being able to show off our new players and our whole NRL squad as well as giving the public a look at the full range of apparel produced by Canterbury of New Zealand,” said Vodafone Warriors chief executive Wayne Scurrah.
“Canterbury has done a superb job with the range including the new street wear apparel. We’re delighted with the look of our new playing kit and the players are excited about it, too. It gives the club a totally new feel and we can’t wait for the season to get under way.”
Canterbury stores and other major retail outlets have the new club apparel in sale now while the street wear range will become available on a progressive basis. Vodafone Warriors supporters can also go online at www.warriors.co.nz to buy the 2009 jerseys plus other apparel and merchandise.
In technical language, the Vodafone Warriors’ 2009 jersey is described as “a durable lightweight, breathable, moisture management fabric that, combined with power stretch side panels, gives a superior fit, giving players a top-end technical ergonomic jersey. The relaxed fit replica is as stipulated by NRL, a fully sublimated polyester garment, which allows all logos to be dyed into the garment when made. The Telstra NRL, CCC and Vodafone Warriors crest are fully embroidered.”
While the new kit and the fashion parade were a focal point of the launch, it was also a chance for the audience of more than 400 to get a closer look at the major new acquisitions – Moon, Kemp, former North Queensland second rower Jacob Lillyman and just-signed ex-Newcastle prop Jesse Royal and former Melbourne halfback Liam (both New Zealanders). And, of course, it was a time to become reacquainted with club legend Stacey Jones, back with the Vodafone Warriors on a one-year contract that could see him take his club record tally of appearances beyond 250 (he starts on 238).
The keynote speaker at the launch was NRL chief executive David Gallop who reserved special praise for the work the Vodafone Warriors had done in the community, culminating in the Club of the Year accolade at the One Community Awards last year after vice-captain Ruben Wiki had won the Ken Stephen Medal for his community work in 2007.
Gallop also commended the Vodafone Warriors for becoming the first eighth-placed side if history to beat the top-ranked team (Melbourne) in the first round of the 2008 finals and emphasised the club’s critical importance to the NRL.
The launch came just days after a huge crowd of 16,703 had watched the Vodafone Warriors beat North Queensland 32-28 in their second NRL trial at North Harbour Stadium last Sunday.
Entering the 2009 campaign with the motto ‘new year, new team, new look’, the club formally introduced its new players and especially its new look from first-year apparel sponsor Canterbury of New Zealand.
A feature of the season-launching lunch at Mt Smart Stadium was a fashion parade involving several of the Vodafone Warriors’ NRL squad including captain Steve Price, Manu Vatuvei, Brent Tate, Wade McKinnon, Jerome Ropati and two of the new signings ex-Broncos Denan Kemp and Joel Moon.
Together with professional models they showed off the club’s new playing kit – both home and away strips – as well as the full range of Vodafone Warriors apparel. They also modelled Canterbury’s new range of street wear, which the players will regularly be kitted out in.
“It’s a huge day for us as a club being able to show off our new players and our whole NRL squad as well as giving the public a look at the full range of apparel produced by Canterbury of New Zealand,” said Vodafone Warriors chief executive Wayne Scurrah.
“Canterbury has done a superb job with the range including the new street wear apparel. We’re delighted with the look of our new playing kit and the players are excited about it, too. It gives the club a totally new feel and we can’t wait for the season to get under way.”
Canterbury stores and other major retail outlets have the new club apparel in sale now while the street wear range will become available on a progressive basis. Vodafone Warriors supporters can also go online at www.warriors.co.nz to buy the 2009 jerseys plus other apparel and merchandise.
In technical language, the Vodafone Warriors’ 2009 jersey is described as “a durable lightweight, breathable, moisture management fabric that, combined with power stretch side panels, gives a superior fit, giving players a top-end technical ergonomic jersey. The relaxed fit replica is as stipulated by NRL, a fully sublimated polyester garment, which allows all logos to be dyed into the garment when made. The Telstra NRL, CCC and Vodafone Warriors crest are fully embroidered.”
While the new kit and the fashion parade were a focal point of the launch, it was also a chance for the audience of more than 400 to get a closer look at the major new acquisitions – Moon, Kemp, former North Queensland second rower Jacob Lillyman and just-signed ex-Newcastle prop Jesse Royal and former Melbourne halfback Liam (both New Zealanders). And, of course, it was a time to become reacquainted with club legend Stacey Jones, back with the Vodafone Warriors on a one-year contract that could see him take his club record tally of appearances beyond 250 (he starts on 238).
The keynote speaker at the launch was NRL chief executive David Gallop who reserved special praise for the work the Vodafone Warriors had done in the community, culminating in the Club of the Year accolade at the One Community Awards last year after vice-captain Ruben Wiki had won the Ken Stephen Medal for his community work in 2007.
Gallop also commended the Vodafone Warriors for becoming the first eighth-placed side if history to beat the top-ranked team (Melbourne) in the first round of the 2008 finals and emphasised the club’s critical importance to the NRL.
The launch came just days after a huge crowd of 16,703 had watched the Vodafone Warriors beat North Queensland 32-28 in their second NRL trial at North Harbour Stadium last Sunday.
LUCK, RAPIRA AND MATULINO BACK ON DECK FOR GOLD COAST TRIAL
World Cup winner Sam Rapira, Micheal Luck and Ben Matulino are all back in the mix for the Vodafone Warriors’ third and final NRL trial against Gold Coast in Lismore, New South Wales, on Saturday night.
They’ve been named in a 21-man squad to fly out on Friday, Rapira and Luck back after being rested for the 32-28 trial win against North Queensland last Sunday and Matulino returning after being excused to attend his sister’s wedding last weekend.
Coach Ivan Cleary said the trial would hold real significance in terms of the make-up of the 17-man squad for the season-opening NRL clash against Parramatta at Mount Smart Stadium on Saturday, March 14 (7.30pm kick-off).
“We haven’t yet settled on the combination we’ll start with against the Titans but this trial will still sort out a few things for us in terms of the way we’ll approach the match against the Eels,” he said.
“There are plenty of areas we need to improve on despite the wins we’ve had against Melbourne and the Cowboys. Our goal-line defence certainly wasn’t where we wanted it to be last Sunday.
“While I have a fair idea in my mind about the team we’ll run with on March 14 there are still some calls to be made.”
The only established NRL player not travelling to Lismore will be prop Evarn Tuimavave who is still being troubled by a neck injury but former North Queensland second rower Jacob Lillyman is in the party as he continues to make good progress from his off-season shoulder surgery. The only other player not considered was young prop Mataupu Poching (ankle).
Of the NRL squad players not in the travelling group, just-signed former Newcastle prop Jesse Royal, Patrick Ah Van, Lewis Brown, Liam Foran, Epalahame Lauaki, Daniel O’Regan, Herman Retzlaff, Malo Solomona and Michael Witt are set to turn out for a Vodafone Warriors selection against the Auckland Vulcans at Walter Massey Park in Mangere on Saturday (2.00pm kick-off). The selection will also include Vodafone Junior Warriors squad members not involved in the NYC trial in Lismore (where the Vodafone Junior Warriors will also be on the programme taking on their Gold Coast NYC counterparts). Leeson Ah Mau, Kevin Locke and Elijah Taylor will all play for the Vodafone Junior Warriors against the Titans.
Apart from beating the Cowboys, the Vodafone Warriors toppled Melbourne 24-12 in their first NRL trial. The Vodafone Junior Warriors had wins over Waikato and Hawke’s Bay before being beaten 48-22 by the Vulcans last Sunday.
They’ve been named in a 21-man squad to fly out on Friday, Rapira and Luck back after being rested for the 32-28 trial win against North Queensland last Sunday and Matulino returning after being excused to attend his sister’s wedding last weekend.
Coach Ivan Cleary said the trial would hold real significance in terms of the make-up of the 17-man squad for the season-opening NRL clash against Parramatta at Mount Smart Stadium on Saturday, March 14 (7.30pm kick-off).
“We haven’t yet settled on the combination we’ll start with against the Titans but this trial will still sort out a few things for us in terms of the way we’ll approach the match against the Eels,” he said.
“There are plenty of areas we need to improve on despite the wins we’ve had against Melbourne and the Cowboys. Our goal-line defence certainly wasn’t where we wanted it to be last Sunday.
“While I have a fair idea in my mind about the team we’ll run with on March 14 there are still some calls to be made.”
The only established NRL player not travelling to Lismore will be prop Evarn Tuimavave who is still being troubled by a neck injury but former North Queensland second rower Jacob Lillyman is in the party as he continues to make good progress from his off-season shoulder surgery. The only other player not considered was young prop Mataupu Poching (ankle).
Of the NRL squad players not in the travelling group, just-signed former Newcastle prop Jesse Royal, Patrick Ah Van, Lewis Brown, Liam Foran, Epalahame Lauaki, Daniel O’Regan, Herman Retzlaff, Malo Solomona and Michael Witt are set to turn out for a Vodafone Warriors selection against the Auckland Vulcans at Walter Massey Park in Mangere on Saturday (2.00pm kick-off). The selection will also include Vodafone Junior Warriors squad members not involved in the NYC trial in Lismore (where the Vodafone Junior Warriors will also be on the programme taking on their Gold Coast NYC counterparts). Leeson Ah Mau, Kevin Locke and Elijah Taylor will all play for the Vodafone Junior Warriors against the Titans.
Apart from beating the Cowboys, the Vodafone Warriors toppled Melbourne 24-12 in their first NRL trial. The Vodafone Junior Warriors had wins over Waikato and Hawke’s Bay before being beaten 48-22 by the Vulcans last Sunday.
BLACKCAPS tour to Zimbabwe postponed
The BLACKCAPS cricket tour to Zimbabwe, scheduled for July this year, has been postponed to June 2010.
The arrangement was made between New Zealand Cricket Chief Executive Justin Vaughan and Zimbabwe Cricket at an ICC meeting today in Johannesburg.
Vaughan said Zimbabwe Cricket was aware of the New Zealand government's opposition to the proposed tour and asked for the deferral. They believed by 2010 the current political powersharing arrangements will have had a positive impact on their country.
“This is a pragmatic solution that allows the situation in Zimbabwe to be monitored over the next year,” said Vaughan.
“Given that Zimbabwe remains a full member of ICC we have continuing obligations to play them on a reciprocal basis - therefore this agreement is an acceptable outcome for the present time”.
No decision has yet been made on whether a replacement tour will be sought for July this year, Vaughan said.
The proposed Zimbabwe series is scheduled to comprise three one day internationals
The arrangement was made between New Zealand Cricket Chief Executive Justin Vaughan and Zimbabwe Cricket at an ICC meeting today in Johannesburg.
Vaughan said Zimbabwe Cricket was aware of the New Zealand government's opposition to the proposed tour and asked for the deferral. They believed by 2010 the current political powersharing arrangements will have had a positive impact on their country.
“This is a pragmatic solution that allows the situation in Zimbabwe to be monitored over the next year,” said Vaughan.
“Given that Zimbabwe remains a full member of ICC we have continuing obligations to play them on a reciprocal basis - therefore this agreement is an acceptable outcome for the present time”.
No decision has yet been made on whether a replacement tour will be sought for July this year, Vaughan said.
The proposed Zimbabwe series is scheduled to comprise three one day internationals
New Zealand Women’s Sevens RWC squad named
New Zealand Women’s Sevens Coach Darryl Suasua has today announced his 12-strong squad for the inaugural Women’s Rugby World Cup Sevens in Dubai.
All but three of the squad bring international experience having played with the 15-a-side Black Ferns previously, making a switch to Sevens for the inaugural women’s Rugby World Cup event.
The New Zealand Women’s Rugby World Cup Sevens squad is: Exia Edwards (Bay of Plenty), Julie Ferguson (Hawke’s Bay) Victoria Grant (Auckland), Carla Hohepa (Otago), Linda Itunu (Auckland), Justine Lavea (Auckland), Huriana Manuel (Auckland), Hannah Porter (Captain, Auckland), Teresa Te Tamaki (Auckland), Renee Wickliffe (Counties Manukau), Rachel Wikeepa (Waikato), Selica Winiata (Manawatu). Please open the attached release for further details.
All but three of the squad bring international experience having played with the 15-a-side Black Ferns previously, making a switch to Sevens for the inaugural women’s Rugby World Cup event.
The New Zealand Women’s Rugby World Cup Sevens squad is: Exia Edwards (Bay of Plenty), Julie Ferguson (Hawke’s Bay) Victoria Grant (Auckland), Carla Hohepa (Otago), Linda Itunu (Auckland), Justine Lavea (Auckland), Huriana Manuel (Auckland), Hannah Porter (Captain, Auckland), Teresa Te Tamaki (Auckland), Renee Wickliffe (Counties Manukau), Rachel Wikeepa (Waikato), Selica Winiata (Manawatu). Please open the attached release for further details.
New Zealand Sevens squad named for 2009 Rugby World Cup Sevens
New Zealand Sevens Coach Gordon Tietjens today named his 12-man squad which will contest the fifth Rugby World Cup (RWC) Sevens tournament in Dubai next month.
The squad features 10 members of the current national Sevens squad, Taranaki’s Ben Souness who joined the squad prior to the San Diego tournament, and Victor Vito from the Rebel Sport Super 14 Hurricanes team. Vito last played for the New Zealand team during the 2007-2008 IRB World Sevens Series.
The New Zealand Sevens RWC squad is: 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), Ben Souness (Taranaki), Chad Tuoro (Counties Manukau), Tu Umaga Marshall (Wellington), Victor Vito (Wellington), Viliame Waqaseduadua (North Harbour). Please open the attached release for further details.
The squad features 10 members of the current national Sevens squad, Taranaki’s Ben Souness who joined the squad prior to the San Diego tournament, and Victor Vito from the Rebel Sport Super 14 Hurricanes team. Vito last played for the New Zealand team during the 2007-2008 IRB World Sevens Series.
The New Zealand Sevens RWC squad is: 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), Ben Souness (Taranaki), Chad Tuoro (Counties Manukau), Tu Umaga Marshall (Wellington), Victor Vito (Wellington), Viliame Waqaseduadua (North Harbour). Please open the attached release for further details.
Laffranchi right for Lismore trial
Hometown hero Anthony Laffranchi has been named in a strong 21-man squad for Saturday night’s pre-season hit-out against the New Zealand Warriors at Oakes Oval, Lismore.
Laffranchi missed last weekend’s trial match win over Cronulla in Darwin due to a minor hamstring complaint but has declared himself a certain starter for the club’s final lead-up match before the opening round of the NRL season.
“I probably could have played last Saturday, I think it was more precautionary,’’ said Laffranchi.
“Initially getting named last week and sitting it out has made me that more hungrier now, so it’s good – it’s the last hit-out before the comp starts and the body is feeling good and I’m ready to go.
Laffranchi, who grew up in the town of Murwillumbah located just 80km north of Lismore, said he was excited by the prospect of returning to where it all began to play in front of family and friends.
“I’ve got a few car loads of family and friends getting down there so I’ll have to see about a few more tickets,’’ he joked.
“It’s going to be good playing in the Northern Rivers close to home and there will be a lot of support hopefully for the Jetstar Titans.’’
The Jetstar Titans will clash with the Warriors at 7.30pm (NSW time) while the club’s younger stars will do battle in the NYC under-20s curtain raiser at 3.50pm.
Queensland Cup feeder clubs Tweed Heads and Ipswich go head-to-head in the other curtain raiser from 5.30pm.
Laffranchi missed last weekend’s trial match win over Cronulla in Darwin due to a minor hamstring complaint but has declared himself a certain starter for the club’s final lead-up match before the opening round of the NRL season.
“I probably could have played last Saturday, I think it was more precautionary,’’ said Laffranchi.
“Initially getting named last week and sitting it out has made me that more hungrier now, so it’s good – it’s the last hit-out before the comp starts and the body is feeling good and I’m ready to go.
Laffranchi, who grew up in the town of Murwillumbah located just 80km north of Lismore, said he was excited by the prospect of returning to where it all began to play in front of family and friends.
“I’ve got a few car loads of family and friends getting down there so I’ll have to see about a few more tickets,’’ he joked.
“It’s going to be good playing in the Northern Rivers close to home and there will be a lot of support hopefully for the Jetstar Titans.’’
The Jetstar Titans will clash with the Warriors at 7.30pm (NSW time) while the club’s younger stars will do battle in the NYC under-20s curtain raiser at 3.50pm.
Queensland Cup feeder clubs Tweed Heads and Ipswich go head-to-head in the other curtain raiser from 5.30pm.
ARL recruitment ‘Blitz’ program
ARL Development today released statistics of its recruitment ‘Blitz’ program which has seen more than 66,000 school children around Sydney get a taste of Rugby League this February.
A total of 257 schools throughout Sydney welcomed NRL players into their classrooms to learn about healthy living through One Commuity’s “Eat well, Play well, Stay well” campaign.
The visits, convened by ARL Development Officers with the support of NSWRL, CRL and NRL Club development staff, also gave students the opportunity to try the ‘mini mod’ version of the game.
Of the 65,245 school children who participated in the ‘Blitz’ visits, almost 35,000 were based at western Sydney schools, a figure highlighting Rugby League’s continued growth in the region.
Six schools in the Canterbury district and eight in the Parramatta district signed up for ‘Blitz’ visits for the first time, while Liverpool Boys High and Leumeah High School both participated for the first time in several years.
ARL Development General Manager Bill Palmer said one of the most pleasing aspects of the ‘Blitz’ program was its ability to reach new schools.
“The recruitment Blitz not only gives school children a taste of Rugby League but it’s very much about promoting a healthy lifestyle,” Palmer said today.
“Kids are able to try the game out and if they like it they are able to sign up for their local junior league.
“The breadth of the program is really quite amazing and these statistics are testament to the hard work the game’s development officers and players are putting in to grass roots Rugby League.”
In the western Sydney region, more than 11,075 kids from 44 Schools in the Canterbury district welcomed top 25 playing squad members from the Bulldogs into their classrooms to talk about the differences between professional football and the ‘mini mod’ version of the game, autograph signing and Q & A sessions.
In the Parramatta region 37 schools and more than 12,000 students listened to Eels players Luke Burt, Ben Smith, Josh Cordoba and Joel Reddy share their experiences in Rugby League.
And Wests Tigers first-grade players Chris Lawrence, Bryce Gibbs, John Morris, Taniela Tuiaki and Todd Payten joined development staff to visit 46 schools and more than 11,200 children.
Meanwhile, St George Illawarra players Jason Nightingale, Ben Creagh and Matt Head visited schools in the Illawarra and Kogarah regions while the Roosters top-25 squad visited 15 schools and more than 3,100 school children.
NRL clubs were also represented at “Come and Try” clinics after school, with the Penrith Panthers players introducing new children to Rugby League and signing autographs at the local club in Doonside in an attempt to support its 2009 recruitment.
A total of 257 schools throughout Sydney welcomed NRL players into their classrooms to learn about healthy living through One Commuity’s “Eat well, Play well, Stay well” campaign.
The visits, convened by ARL Development Officers with the support of NSWRL, CRL and NRL Club development staff, also gave students the opportunity to try the ‘mini mod’ version of the game.
Of the 65,245 school children who participated in the ‘Blitz’ visits, almost 35,000 were based at western Sydney schools, a figure highlighting Rugby League’s continued growth in the region.
Six schools in the Canterbury district and eight in the Parramatta district signed up for ‘Blitz’ visits for the first time, while Liverpool Boys High and Leumeah High School both participated for the first time in several years.
ARL Development General Manager Bill Palmer said one of the most pleasing aspects of the ‘Blitz’ program was its ability to reach new schools.
“The recruitment Blitz not only gives school children a taste of Rugby League but it’s very much about promoting a healthy lifestyle,” Palmer said today.
“Kids are able to try the game out and if they like it they are able to sign up for their local junior league.
“The breadth of the program is really quite amazing and these statistics are testament to the hard work the game’s development officers and players are putting in to grass roots Rugby League.”
In the western Sydney region, more than 11,075 kids from 44 Schools in the Canterbury district welcomed top 25 playing squad members from the Bulldogs into their classrooms to talk about the differences between professional football and the ‘mini mod’ version of the game, autograph signing and Q & A sessions.
In the Parramatta region 37 schools and more than 12,000 students listened to Eels players Luke Burt, Ben Smith, Josh Cordoba and Joel Reddy share their experiences in Rugby League.
And Wests Tigers first-grade players Chris Lawrence, Bryce Gibbs, John Morris, Taniela Tuiaki and Todd Payten joined development staff to visit 46 schools and more than 11,200 children.
Meanwhile, St George Illawarra players Jason Nightingale, Ben Creagh and Matt Head visited schools in the Illawarra and Kogarah regions while the Roosters top-25 squad visited 15 schools and more than 3,100 school children.
NRL clubs were also represented at “Come and Try” clinics after school, with the Penrith Panthers players introducing new children to Rugby League and signing autographs at the local club in Doonside in an attempt to support its 2009 recruitment.
Alex Reid Millar, IOG National Chairman
Alex Millar, National Chairman of the Institute of Groundsmanship, passed away on February 17 at the John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford. He was 67.
A revered grounds care professional, Alex’s industry-wide reputation began at Wrest Park, Silsoe, Bedfordshire before moving back to Scotland to join Glasgow City Council. He moved to Milton Keynes in 1989 and joined Milton Keynes Council as Client Officer in the Parks and Open Spaces Department.
An avid Rangers FC supporter, Alex was a fervent advocate of the IOG and its aims, and throughout his life he worked tirelessly for the industry as a whole as well as the IOG. Among his many accolades, Alex helped launch the IOG Milton Keynes Branch in the 1980s, was a member of the Football League Playing Surfaces Committee and judged the annual Groundsman of the Year Award. He was also a member of the IOG Board (and its forerunner, the National Executive Committee) plus had a spell as IOG Treasurer and IOG National Chairman in 1991-1993, in addition to holding his current post as IOG National Chairman since 2002.
Among the many words of sympathy, Geoff Webb, IOG Chief Executive, commented: “Each of us will hold personal feelings towards Alex, and each of us will be affected by his passing. Alex was someone who had a great perception and understanding of others; he was a person with immense knowledge and he was highly respected throughout the industry.
“I certainly will miss his company and his sense of intellect, guidance, humour and determination, as well as his vision that has been the catalyst for so much change at the IOG.
“If ever there was a true ‘unsung hero’ and a champion for the industry, Alex had the perfect CV. I pay tribute to all that he has achieved over so many years of dedicated service to the IOG.”
A revered grounds care professional, Alex’s industry-wide reputation began at Wrest Park, Silsoe, Bedfordshire before moving back to Scotland to join Glasgow City Council. He moved to Milton Keynes in 1989 and joined Milton Keynes Council as Client Officer in the Parks and Open Spaces Department.
An avid Rangers FC supporter, Alex was a fervent advocate of the IOG and its aims, and throughout his life he worked tirelessly for the industry as a whole as well as the IOG. Among his many accolades, Alex helped launch the IOG Milton Keynes Branch in the 1980s, was a member of the Football League Playing Surfaces Committee and judged the annual Groundsman of the Year Award. He was also a member of the IOG Board (and its forerunner, the National Executive Committee) plus had a spell as IOG Treasurer and IOG National Chairman in 1991-1993, in addition to holding his current post as IOG National Chairman since 2002.
Among the many words of sympathy, Geoff Webb, IOG Chief Executive, commented: “Each of us will hold personal feelings towards Alex, and each of us will be affected by his passing. Alex was someone who had a great perception and understanding of others; he was a person with immense knowledge and he was highly respected throughout the industry.
“I certainly will miss his company and his sense of intellect, guidance, humour and determination, as well as his vision that has been the catalyst for so much change at the IOG.
“If ever there was a true ‘unsung hero’ and a champion for the industry, Alex had the perfect CV. I pay tribute to all that he has achieved over so many years of dedicated service to the IOG.”
Whitnell Pips Abbott For Portuguese Title
Dale Whitnell beat England international colleague Jamie Abbott in a sudden death playoff for the Portuguese Amateur Championship at Troia to collect his first title of 2009.
The East Anglian pair finished the weather-shortened event on 210, six under par, Whitnell with a closing 71 to Abbott’s 68, and two strokes ahead of Amateur Champion Reiner Saxton from the Netherlands. Then 20-year-old Whitnell eased past his pal with a birdie at the second playoff hole.
So much time was lost with early-morning mist on Thursday and Friday that the second round was not completed until Saturday afternoon by which time the Portuguese officials decided to cut the event to 54 holes.
Whitnell (photo courtesy of Tom Ward) began the final round two stokes off the lead held by Van der Vaart but he was level after an eagle-three at the opening hole. Out in 35, the Essex man dropped a shot at the 11th but a birdie at the 16th proved vital to secure his playoff spot.
Suffolk-based Abbott, who began five shots back, was also out in 35 and could have won the title outright. But a bogey at the 15th proved as crucial as Whitnell’s late birdie when a par would have left him a shot clear.
It proved a successful week for English players with four finishing in the leading seven.
Luke Goddard, winner of the Argentine title in December was joint fourth on 213 with a second Dutchman, Jurrian Van Der Vaart, while another international, Sam Hutsby finished equal sixth with defending champion Pedro Figueiredo of Portugal on 214.
Leading Final scores:
210 D Whitnell (Eng) 71 68 71, J Abbott (Eng) 73 69 68
(Whitnell won playoff at second extra hole)
212 R Saxton (Ned) 72 70 70
213 L Goddard (Eng) 72 70 71, J van der Vaart (Ned) 68 69 76
214 S Hutsby (Eng) 72 66 76, P Figueiredo (Por) 69 72 73
215 K Samooja (Fin) 75 70 70, A Kristiansen (Nor) 70 68 77
Other English scores:
218 M Haines 77 69 72
219 T Fleetwood 70 75 74
221 S Hodgson 73 75 73, M Mackman 72 75 74, E Pepperell 72 73 76
222 J Barnes 77 71 74
223 J Shepherd 75 75 73 , J Taverner 75 73 75, C Hinton 75 72 76.
224 D Wright 77 70 77
225 B Hemstock 75 74 76
The East Anglian pair finished the weather-shortened event on 210, six under par, Whitnell with a closing 71 to Abbott’s 68, and two strokes ahead of Amateur Champion Reiner Saxton from the Netherlands. Then 20-year-old Whitnell eased past his pal with a birdie at the second playoff hole.
So much time was lost with early-morning mist on Thursday and Friday that the second round was not completed until Saturday afternoon by which time the Portuguese officials decided to cut the event to 54 holes.
Whitnell (photo courtesy of Tom Ward) began the final round two stokes off the lead held by Van der Vaart but he was level after an eagle-three at the opening hole. Out in 35, the Essex man dropped a shot at the 11th but a birdie at the 16th proved vital to secure his playoff spot.
Suffolk-based Abbott, who began five shots back, was also out in 35 and could have won the title outright. But a bogey at the 15th proved as crucial as Whitnell’s late birdie when a par would have left him a shot clear.
It proved a successful week for English players with four finishing in the leading seven.
Luke Goddard, winner of the Argentine title in December was joint fourth on 213 with a second Dutchman, Jurrian Van Der Vaart, while another international, Sam Hutsby finished equal sixth with defending champion Pedro Figueiredo of Portugal on 214.
Leading Final scores:
210 D Whitnell (Eng) 71 68 71, J Abbott (Eng) 73 69 68
(Whitnell won playoff at second extra hole)
212 R Saxton (Ned) 72 70 70
213 L Goddard (Eng) 72 70 71, J van der Vaart (Ned) 68 69 76
214 S Hutsby (Eng) 72 66 76, P Figueiredo (Por) 69 72 73
215 K Samooja (Fin) 75 70 70, A Kristiansen (Nor) 70 68 77
Other English scores:
218 M Haines 77 69 72
219 T Fleetwood 70 75 74
221 S Hodgson 73 75 73, M Mackman 72 75 74, E Pepperell 72 73 76
222 J Barnes 77 71 74
223 J Shepherd 75 75 73 , J Taverner 75 73 75, C Hinton 75 72 76.
224 D Wright 77 70 77
225 B Hemstock 75 74 76
Cardiff Devils Match Report
Jay Latulippe and Joe Myers combined to blow the Excel Hull Stingrays out of the water as the Cardiff Devils skated out to a 7-1 victory on Saturday night.
Hat trick hero Latulippe had a four-point night and Myers stopped all but one of the 32 shots he faced as the Devils ransacked the Hull Arena.
Ben Davies doubled up with two goals in the second period, while Mike Prpich and Phil Hill added one each to complete the rout.
It was Cardiff’s fourth win in five games against the ninth-ranked Stingrays and the result keeps the fifth-ranked Devils ahead of the Manchester Phoenix for at least a day.
Myers made his second straight start in place of regular number-one Peter Aubry, who was again rested by coach Gerad Adams, turning in possibly the best performance of his young career.
With Myers on top form, the Devils were also boosted by the return of first line centreman Jason Silvethorn.
Silverthorn had been off the active roster since injuring his hand in the ill-tempered game with Nottingham on January 24 and gave the overworked Devils forward pack a boost.
Almost predictably, the return of Silverthorn meant that it was time for another Devil to be struck by the dreaded I-word. Jason Stone took an awkward fall in the second and did not return for the final frame after receiving treatment from the physio.
When the teams last met the Devils held a 1-0 lead for most of the game before Hull came back to win late in the third period. This time the Devils blew the game wide open, taking a 4-0 lead with Latulippe front and centre.
One week after his hat trick in Newcastle, the 26-year old American was at it again as he blitzed Hull goalie Curtis Cruickshank with a first period treble. Latulippe and the Devils got the jump on the hometown Rays only 24 seconds into the contest when he scored his first, assisted by Brad Voth.
Latulippe’s second came at 9:23, from Hill and Mike Hartwick. And it was 3-0 at 14:18 when Latulippe combined with Matt Elich on the powerplay to set up Mike Prpich.
Man of the match Latulippe made it 4-0 with his third at 16:37 after he was played in by Tyson Teplitsky.
The shellshocked Stingrays did manage to stem the tide before the first intermission when Kalmikov scored at 18:08, assisted by Pavel Gomenyuk and Slava Koulikov.
The break in play didn’t slow the Devils, however, as they scored three more unanswered in the second period.
Davies grabbed his first at 25:01, from Elich and Prpich, increasing the lead to 5-1. Later in the period with the Devils on a powerplay, Matt Towe and Doug MacIver worked the puck to Hill, who notched his 19th goal of the season at 29:42 to make it 6-1.
After opening his account last weekend, Davies then grabbed his third of the campaign to wrap the scoring up at 34:02, with help from MacIver.
At that point Cruickshank, who appeared in Thursday’s All Star game, was pulled in favour of Hull backup Andrew Jaszcyk.
Voth and MacIver both received misconducts in the third period as Jaszyck and Myers kept the lid on the score.
The Devils, who have an off day on Sunday, now return home for next Saturday’s battle in the Bay with the Newcastle Vipers (7:00pm).
Statistics:
Devils: Jay Latulippe 3+1; Ben Davies 2+0; Phil Hill 1+2; Mike Prpich 1+1; Matt Elich 0+2; Doug MacIver 0+2; Tyson Teplitsky 0+1; Brad Voth 0+1; Mike Hartwick 0+1; Matt Towe 0+1; Wes Jarvis 0+1
Stingrays: Konstantin Kalmikov 1+0; Pavel Gomenyuk 0+1; Slava Koulikov 0+1
Period Scores: Devils: 4+3+0=7; Stingrays: 1+0+0=1
Shots on Goal: Devils: 42 (30 on Cruickshank – 12 on Jaszcyk); Stingrays: 32
Penalty Minutes: Devils: 55; Stingrays: 10
Referee: Tom Darnell
Powerplays: Devils: 2/4; Stingrays: 0/8
Hat trick hero Latulippe had a four-point night and Myers stopped all but one of the 32 shots he faced as the Devils ransacked the Hull Arena.
Ben Davies doubled up with two goals in the second period, while Mike Prpich and Phil Hill added one each to complete the rout.
It was Cardiff’s fourth win in five games against the ninth-ranked Stingrays and the result keeps the fifth-ranked Devils ahead of the Manchester Phoenix for at least a day.
Myers made his second straight start in place of regular number-one Peter Aubry, who was again rested by coach Gerad Adams, turning in possibly the best performance of his young career.
With Myers on top form, the Devils were also boosted by the return of first line centreman Jason Silvethorn.
Silverthorn had been off the active roster since injuring his hand in the ill-tempered game with Nottingham on January 24 and gave the overworked Devils forward pack a boost.
Almost predictably, the return of Silverthorn meant that it was time for another Devil to be struck by the dreaded I-word. Jason Stone took an awkward fall in the second and did not return for the final frame after receiving treatment from the physio.
When the teams last met the Devils held a 1-0 lead for most of the game before Hull came back to win late in the third period. This time the Devils blew the game wide open, taking a 4-0 lead with Latulippe front and centre.
One week after his hat trick in Newcastle, the 26-year old American was at it again as he blitzed Hull goalie Curtis Cruickshank with a first period treble. Latulippe and the Devils got the jump on the hometown Rays only 24 seconds into the contest when he scored his first, assisted by Brad Voth.
Latulippe’s second came at 9:23, from Hill and Mike Hartwick. And it was 3-0 at 14:18 when Latulippe combined with Matt Elich on the powerplay to set up Mike Prpich.
Man of the match Latulippe made it 4-0 with his third at 16:37 after he was played in by Tyson Teplitsky.
The shellshocked Stingrays did manage to stem the tide before the first intermission when Kalmikov scored at 18:08, assisted by Pavel Gomenyuk and Slava Koulikov.
The break in play didn’t slow the Devils, however, as they scored three more unanswered in the second period.
Davies grabbed his first at 25:01, from Elich and Prpich, increasing the lead to 5-1. Later in the period with the Devils on a powerplay, Matt Towe and Doug MacIver worked the puck to Hill, who notched his 19th goal of the season at 29:42 to make it 6-1.
After opening his account last weekend, Davies then grabbed his third of the campaign to wrap the scoring up at 34:02, with help from MacIver.
At that point Cruickshank, who appeared in Thursday’s All Star game, was pulled in favour of Hull backup Andrew Jaszcyk.
Voth and MacIver both received misconducts in the third period as Jaszyck and Myers kept the lid on the score.
The Devils, who have an off day on Sunday, now return home for next Saturday’s battle in the Bay with the Newcastle Vipers (7:00pm).
Statistics:
Devils: Jay Latulippe 3+1; Ben Davies 2+0; Phil Hill 1+2; Mike Prpich 1+1; Matt Elich 0+2; Doug MacIver 0+2; Tyson Teplitsky 0+1; Brad Voth 0+1; Mike Hartwick 0+1; Matt Towe 0+1; Wes Jarvis 0+1
Stingrays: Konstantin Kalmikov 1+0; Pavel Gomenyuk 0+1; Slava Koulikov 0+1
Period Scores: Devils: 4+3+0=7; Stingrays: 1+0+0=1
Shots on Goal: Devils: 42 (30 on Cruickshank – 12 on Jaszcyk); Stingrays: 32
Penalty Minutes: Devils: 55; Stingrays: 10
Referee: Tom Darnell
Powerplays: Devils: 2/4; Stingrays: 0/8
Musgrave Smashes His Way to 45th In The World
Andrew Musgrave (18, Huntly) yesterday recorded the best performance by a British athlete for a number of years at the FIS World Cross Country Championships in Liberec, Czech Republic and in doing so was the youngest skier to finish the race.
Eighteen year old Musgrave had the race of his life to finish the 30km Double Pursuit race in 45th position – his first appearance at this distance having only raced at 20km before yesterday.
Musgrave skied like the wind and finished in a personal best just 5.5% behind the winner. He stuck to the back of the lead pack for the first half of the classic leg, picking off a few good skiers in the process, and came into the transition in 50th position. Musgrave set out hard on the skate leg and worked well with Ben Sim of Australia and skiers from the French, Canadian and Japanese teams and as a group they managed to climb through the field and in doing so the rankings.
The pace quickened among the group for the last 2km of the race and with tired legs Musgrave lost touch with Sim. He kept pushing hard until the finish and came home in 45th position, a result which has earned him a huge amount of praise from the biggest ski nations in the world.
British Team Leader, Al Dargie commented “today is yet another historic moment in our sport and words cannot describe the level of Andrew’s performance. Yesterday’s result has put Andrew a couple of years ahead of his performance pathway targets on his quest to become World Champion. The entire support team (made up almost entirely of athletes) did really well to give Andrew the help he needed from testing glide wax, grip wax, videoing for future use and covering the whole course with radios, so the right tactical advice could be given to Andrew. I am very proud of everyone today”.
Roy Young, Head Coach said “to have achieved a finish position and percentage from the winner like this at 18 is incredible. It was a fantastic performance that surpassed even our expectations of Andrew, every time we worried he might be flagging he picked it up a gear and worked incredibly hard to pass the next skier. He even managed to beat the reigning World Under 23 Champion”.
Eighteen year old Musgrave had the race of his life to finish the 30km Double Pursuit race in 45th position – his first appearance at this distance having only raced at 20km before yesterday.
Musgrave skied like the wind and finished in a personal best just 5.5% behind the winner. He stuck to the back of the lead pack for the first half of the classic leg, picking off a few good skiers in the process, and came into the transition in 50th position. Musgrave set out hard on the skate leg and worked well with Ben Sim of Australia and skiers from the French, Canadian and Japanese teams and as a group they managed to climb through the field and in doing so the rankings.
The pace quickened among the group for the last 2km of the race and with tired legs Musgrave lost touch with Sim. He kept pushing hard until the finish and came home in 45th position, a result which has earned him a huge amount of praise from the biggest ski nations in the world.
British Team Leader, Al Dargie commented “today is yet another historic moment in our sport and words cannot describe the level of Andrew’s performance. Yesterday’s result has put Andrew a couple of years ahead of his performance pathway targets on his quest to become World Champion. The entire support team (made up almost entirely of athletes) did really well to give Andrew the help he needed from testing glide wax, grip wax, videoing for future use and covering the whole course with radios, so the right tactical advice could be given to Andrew. I am very proud of everyone today”.
Roy Young, Head Coach said “to have achieved a finish position and percentage from the winner like this at 18 is incredible. It was a fantastic performance that surpassed even our expectations of Andrew, every time we worried he might be flagging he picked it up a gear and worked incredibly hard to pass the next skier. He even managed to beat the reigning World Under 23 Champion”.
Sealegs Completes Successful Circumnavigation of North Island
A Sealegs 7.1m amphibious inflatable boat today completed a successful 3,015km circumnavigation of the North Island.
The two-man team, headed by Sealegs Corporation CEO David McKee Wright, set off from Takapuna towards Cape Reinga last Monday (February 16) and completed the journey – equivalent in distance from Rarotonga to Auckland—at 1.25pm today in approximately 65 hours of driving time, at an average speed of 46km/h. The Sealegs RIB was powered by an Evinrude E-Tec 150hp outboard.
The ambitious venture took the craft from Auckland up to Cape Reinga, down the west coast of the North Island past New Plymouth then Wanganui. The team then ventured across the Cook Strait to Nelson before returning to Auckland via Wellington, Napier, Whakatane and Whitianga.
Sealegs CEO David McKee Wright says “the journey has proven the reliability, durability and mature design of the Sealegs amphibious marine craft.
“The investment the company has made into design and manufacture was evident in the craft’s performance in the testing conditions found through parts of the journey, including swells up to five metres and winds in excess of 40 knots.”
The purpose of the trip was to evaluate the performance of the new 2009 US Coast Guard compliant Sealegs craft in some of the harshest conditions found in the world. During the circumnavigation, the amphibious craft was demonstrated to many people who had not yet been exposed to the revolutionary practice of hassle free launch and retrieval of their boats, which are just two of the many benefits that Sealegs provide with their innovative product.
The two-man team, headed by Sealegs Corporation CEO David McKee Wright, set off from Takapuna towards Cape Reinga last Monday (February 16) and completed the journey – equivalent in distance from Rarotonga to Auckland—at 1.25pm today in approximately 65 hours of driving time, at an average speed of 46km/h. The Sealegs RIB was powered by an Evinrude E-Tec 150hp outboard.
The ambitious venture took the craft from Auckland up to Cape Reinga, down the west coast of the North Island past New Plymouth then Wanganui. The team then ventured across the Cook Strait to Nelson before returning to Auckland via Wellington, Napier, Whakatane and Whitianga.
Sealegs CEO David McKee Wright says “the journey has proven the reliability, durability and mature design of the Sealegs amphibious marine craft.
“The investment the company has made into design and manufacture was evident in the craft’s performance in the testing conditions found through parts of the journey, including swells up to five metres and winds in excess of 40 knots.”
The purpose of the trip was to evaluate the performance of the new 2009 US Coast Guard compliant Sealegs craft in some of the harshest conditions found in the world. During the circumnavigation, the amphibious craft was demonstrated to many people who had not yet been exposed to the revolutionary practice of hassle free launch and retrieval of their boats, which are just two of the many benefits that Sealegs provide with their innovative product.
Wests Tigers coach Tim Sheens coach of the Australian Test side the Kangaroos
The Board of the Australian Rugby League today named Wests Tigers coach Tim Sheens as coach of the Australian Test side the Kangaroos.
Sheens’ appointment as national coach is his latest achievement in an outstanding career that began in 1984 with Penrith and has spanned 568 first-grade games over the past 24 years.
At the representative level Sheens has coached City Origin in 1991, 2006, 2007, 2008, and the NSW Blues State of Origin side in the 1991 series.
Australian Rugby League Chief Executive Geoff Carr said;
“The ARL had an outstanding group of coaches to select from and that is an indication of the regard Tim Sheens is held in.
“Tim’s record speaks for itself – he has won four Premierships and has coached more games than anyone in the game’s history.
“There are very few coaches out there who have achieved such sustained success over such a long period of time.
“Tim’s experience is matched by his ability to extract the absolute best from his players at both club and representative level.
“We believe we have the best man for the job.”
Sheens’ appointment as national coach is his latest achievement in an outstanding career that began in 1984 with Penrith and has spanned 568 first-grade games over the past 24 years.
At the representative level Sheens has coached City Origin in 1991, 2006, 2007, 2008, and the NSW Blues State of Origin side in the 1991 series.
Australian Rugby League Chief Executive Geoff Carr said;
“The ARL had an outstanding group of coaches to select from and that is an indication of the regard Tim Sheens is held in.
“Tim’s record speaks for itself – he has won four Premierships and has coached more games than anyone in the game’s history.
“There are very few coaches out there who have achieved such sustained success over such a long period of time.
“Tim’s experience is matched by his ability to extract the absolute best from his players at both club and representative level.
“We believe we have the best man for the job.”
New Zealand A side named for match against England Lions
New Zealand Cricket has announced the New Zealand A side for the first of two four-day matches against the England Lions (England A) in Queenstown.
The squad is:
Jamie How (captain)
Brent Arnel
Trent Boult
James Franklin
Peter Ingram
Mitchell McClenaghan
Tim McIntosh
Bruce Martin
BJ Watling
Kane Williamson
Luke Woodcock
Reece Young
Head of the selection panel Glenn Turner said the series would provide a good opportunity for both established and younger players to get time in the longer form of the game.
“Jamie How has agreed to captain the side, and this will give him an opportunity to find some form in a four-day setting,” said Turner. “James Franklin also has a good chance to show whether he can regain the form he’s shown in test cricket previously with the ball and also show his improvement with the bat.”
“Mitchell McClenaghan earns selection as one of the sharpest bowlers in the domestic competition and is in the promising category. Kane Williamson is another promising young talent – he’s batting well and also bowls off-spinners.”
Turner said it was notable that with Franklin, Boult and McClenaghan the side would take three left arm quick bowlers into the match. “That’s a bit unusual – and a good place to be in given that we have not had many left arm quicks performing at this level in recent years.”
The New Zealand A side plays the England Lions in four-day games at Queenstown, from 1 to 4 March, and at Lincoln, 7 to 10 March.
The series finishes with one-day games at Palmerston North on 13 and 16 March, and a Twenty20 at New Plymouth on 19 March.
The squad is:
Jamie How (captain)
Brent Arnel
Trent Boult
James Franklin
Peter Ingram
Mitchell McClenaghan
Tim McIntosh
Bruce Martin
BJ Watling
Kane Williamson
Luke Woodcock
Reece Young
Head of the selection panel Glenn Turner said the series would provide a good opportunity for both established and younger players to get time in the longer form of the game.
“Jamie How has agreed to captain the side, and this will give him an opportunity to find some form in a four-day setting,” said Turner. “James Franklin also has a good chance to show whether he can regain the form he’s shown in test cricket previously with the ball and also show his improvement with the bat.”
“Mitchell McClenaghan earns selection as one of the sharpest bowlers in the domestic competition and is in the promising category. Kane Williamson is another promising young talent – he’s batting well and also bowls off-spinners.”
Turner said it was notable that with Franklin, Boult and McClenaghan the side would take three left arm quick bowlers into the match. “That’s a bit unusual – and a good place to be in given that we have not had many left arm quicks performing at this level in recent years.”
The New Zealand A side plays the England Lions in four-day games at Queenstown, from 1 to 4 March, and at Lincoln, 7 to 10 March.
The series finishes with one-day games at Palmerston North on 13 and 16 March, and a Twenty20 at New Plymouth on 19 March.
New Zealand’s Fight of the Century to be staged in Hamilton
Duco Events, the promoters of the landmark heavyweight bout between David Tua and Shane Cameron, have announced that Hamilton will host the contest on June 6.
Duco Events has undertaken a due diligence of several potential locations and venues for the Fight of the Century. Auckland City offered a meaningful level of contra support to secure the event for the Vector Arena and the professionalism of the staff and the Chief Executive of Vector Arena, Guy Ngata, added to its appeal as a potential venue.
Duco also looked closely at Trusts Stadium in Waitakere and at Westpac Stadium and the indoor TSB Arena in Wellington. Both Councils told the promoters they were ready, willing and able to host the bout. Indeed, Wellington City formally recorded their excitement about the fight and told the promoters they believe it will be “hugely successful”.
Duco’s final decision was based not just on the level of sponsorship contribution but on several variables. “Above all,” stated Duco Director David Higgins, “it was vital that the host city partner demonstrated respect for a landmark event that will focus the enthusiasm and passion of the country.
“On all counts, Hamilton emerged clearly as our first choice. We had a robust negotiation with Hamilton City. It’s fair to say that we did not secure everything we wanted but we believe we have most certainly got an arrangement that delivers value to both parties.”
Higgins acknowledged Gordon Campbell, principal of marketing strategists Campbell Consulting, who undertook impartial research into the costs and benefits of each venue. “Campbell Consulting’s sound advice was instrumental in Hamilton emerging as the preferred venue for the Fight of the Century.”
David Higgins also reinforced the fact that Duco are the promoters of the event, not Hamilton. “This is a totally different situation from recent events in Auckland, where local authorities have themselves been promoters and found themselves exposed to risk they have not been able to manage, “Mr Higgins said.
“Thankfully, Hamilton City Council is not obsessed with David Beckham three months after the fact,” Mr Higgins noted. “This enabled them to see obvious value when it was presented to them and they were efficient, professional and discrete in putting a smart sponsorship arrangement in place, where the promoter carries the risk, not the ratepayers. Good on them. The Hamilton 400 V8 Race is proof of their capability and we look forward to working with their team.”
Waikato Stadium will be fully covered for the event. The promoters will ensure the highest standard of corporate hosting via marquees and there will be a range of general admission seating options to suit most budgets.
The corporate hospitality options will be unique, with every table for ten guests matched with ten corresponding ringside seats.
Fight for Life promoter Dean Lonergan, who is looking after corporate sales for Tua v Cameron, said: “I’m really pleased to be involved with the Fight of the Century. It will be one of the best corporate and sports experiences of the past 20 years. Already the demand from my corporate clientele for the tables and ringside seats is at an unprecedented level.”
The dimensions and sight lines of Waikato Stadium will also provide the best “bird’s eye view” for the general admission spectators because the stands are positioned right on the edge of the rugby turf. The experience will be further enhanced by state of the art video screens and audio.
The boxing ring and ringside seating will be sheltered by a unique 50x50 metre custom-made shelter, capable of withstanding gale force winds and bearing 100 tonnes of weight.
“This contest is shaping up as an epic event,” said Mr Higgins. “On one side is David Tua, who fought for the world title, still jointly holds the world record for the most punches thrown in a heavyweight bout and has been named by boxing’s Bible, Ring Magazine, as the 48th most powerful puncher in the history of boxing.
“On the other side is Shane Cameron, an outstanding talent, renowned for his courage and ranked sixth in the world by the WBO. And an under-card described at the weekend by the Sunday Star Times as ‘genuinely one of the best under-cards yet seen in this country’.
“A great event deserves a great venue and needs great partners. In Hamilton, we’re satisfied we’ve found the best city and venue to stage the Fight of the Century,” said Mr Higgins. “Bring it on!”
Duco Events has undertaken a due diligence of several potential locations and venues for the Fight of the Century. Auckland City offered a meaningful level of contra support to secure the event for the Vector Arena and the professionalism of the staff and the Chief Executive of Vector Arena, Guy Ngata, added to its appeal as a potential venue.
Duco also looked closely at Trusts Stadium in Waitakere and at Westpac Stadium and the indoor TSB Arena in Wellington. Both Councils told the promoters they were ready, willing and able to host the bout. Indeed, Wellington City formally recorded their excitement about the fight and told the promoters they believe it will be “hugely successful”.
Duco’s final decision was based not just on the level of sponsorship contribution but on several variables. “Above all,” stated Duco Director David Higgins, “it was vital that the host city partner demonstrated respect for a landmark event that will focus the enthusiasm and passion of the country.
“On all counts, Hamilton emerged clearly as our first choice. We had a robust negotiation with Hamilton City. It’s fair to say that we did not secure everything we wanted but we believe we have most certainly got an arrangement that delivers value to both parties.”
Higgins acknowledged Gordon Campbell, principal of marketing strategists Campbell Consulting, who undertook impartial research into the costs and benefits of each venue. “Campbell Consulting’s sound advice was instrumental in Hamilton emerging as the preferred venue for the Fight of the Century.”
David Higgins also reinforced the fact that Duco are the promoters of the event, not Hamilton. “This is a totally different situation from recent events in Auckland, where local authorities have themselves been promoters and found themselves exposed to risk they have not been able to manage, “Mr Higgins said.
“Thankfully, Hamilton City Council is not obsessed with David Beckham three months after the fact,” Mr Higgins noted. “This enabled them to see obvious value when it was presented to them and they were efficient, professional and discrete in putting a smart sponsorship arrangement in place, where the promoter carries the risk, not the ratepayers. Good on them. The Hamilton 400 V8 Race is proof of their capability and we look forward to working with their team.”
Waikato Stadium will be fully covered for the event. The promoters will ensure the highest standard of corporate hosting via marquees and there will be a range of general admission seating options to suit most budgets.
The corporate hospitality options will be unique, with every table for ten guests matched with ten corresponding ringside seats.
Fight for Life promoter Dean Lonergan, who is looking after corporate sales for Tua v Cameron, said: “I’m really pleased to be involved with the Fight of the Century. It will be one of the best corporate and sports experiences of the past 20 years. Already the demand from my corporate clientele for the tables and ringside seats is at an unprecedented level.”
The dimensions and sight lines of Waikato Stadium will also provide the best “bird’s eye view” for the general admission spectators because the stands are positioned right on the edge of the rugby turf. The experience will be further enhanced by state of the art video screens and audio.
The boxing ring and ringside seating will be sheltered by a unique 50x50 metre custom-made shelter, capable of withstanding gale force winds and bearing 100 tonnes of weight.
“This contest is shaping up as an epic event,” said Mr Higgins. “On one side is David Tua, who fought for the world title, still jointly holds the world record for the most punches thrown in a heavyweight bout and has been named by boxing’s Bible, Ring Magazine, as the 48th most powerful puncher in the history of boxing.
“On the other side is Shane Cameron, an outstanding talent, renowned for his courage and ranked sixth in the world by the WBO. And an under-card described at the weekend by the Sunday Star Times as ‘genuinely one of the best under-cards yet seen in this country’.
“A great event deserves a great venue and needs great partners. In Hamilton, we’re satisfied we’ve found the best city and venue to stage the Fight of the Century,” said Mr Higgins. “Bring it on!”
A Tribute to Stephen Fleming
an entertaining gala dinner event with special guest speaker Shane Warne, presented by SKYCITY on Friday 13 March.
You’ll rub shoulders with leading characters and personalities of international cricket at this extraordinary evening in aid of Starship Foundation.
Don’t miss this stunning one-off tribute to our most revered cricket captain of all time on the eve of New Zealand's epic clash with India at Eden Park.
Keynote speakers and panelists include:
• Shane Warne, one of Wisden’s five “Cricketers of the Century”
• Stephen Fleming who will tell you about his career highlights
• Daniel Vettori, Captain of the Black Caps
• Brendan McCullum, New Zealand’s swashbuckling wicket-keeper-batsman
• Martin Crowe, widely regarded as New Zealand greatest batsman of all time
• Nathan Astle, scorer of the fastest double century in history
• Plus Shane Bond & Craig McMillan, will they make a comeback?
Reward yourself, clients and friends by hosting your own table at A Tribute to Stephen Fleming Gala Dinner; tables for 10 guests are priced from $2,450+GST and tickets from $245+GST.
For more information or to book now visit: www.GalaDinner.co.nz
Starship Foundation appreciates your support which really does make a difference.
You’ll rub shoulders with leading characters and personalities of international cricket at this extraordinary evening in aid of Starship Foundation.
Don’t miss this stunning one-off tribute to our most revered cricket captain of all time on the eve of New Zealand's epic clash with India at Eden Park.
Keynote speakers and panelists include:
• Shane Warne, one of Wisden’s five “Cricketers of the Century”
• Stephen Fleming who will tell you about his career highlights
• Daniel Vettori, Captain of the Black Caps
• Brendan McCullum, New Zealand’s swashbuckling wicket-keeper-batsman
• Martin Crowe, widely regarded as New Zealand greatest batsman of all time
• Nathan Astle, scorer of the fastest double century in history
• Plus Shane Bond & Craig McMillan, will they make a comeback?
Reward yourself, clients and friends by hosting your own table at A Tribute to Stephen Fleming Gala Dinner; tables for 10 guests are priced from $2,450+GST and tickets from $245+GST.
For more information or to book now visit: www.GalaDinner.co.nz
Starship Foundation appreciates your support which really does make a difference.
SIMON CHILD TO CAPTAIN
The Junior Black Sticks Men’s hockey team to play in June’s Junior (Under 21) World Cup in Singapore and Malaysia will include four current senior Black Sticks, most notably captain Simon Child. Child – just 20, has already amassed 96 tests for the senior Black Sticks and was also nominated for the World Hockey U21 player of the year in 2008. Other senior Blacks Sticks confirmed in the 18 man team include Nick Wilson (Central), Shay Neal (North Harbour) and Blair Hilton (Wellington).
New Zealand’s place in the World Cup was in serious doubt due to a lack of funding, however with their campaign now fully funded by the players and their families – they are confirmed starters. They will depart for Singapore on June 1st and return on June 22nd.
The Junior Black Sticks Men will face tough opposition in the form of India and Holland in their pool along with Poland and hosts Singapore. They will back themselves to knock Poland and Singapore over but will have to get points from either India or Holland to progress past pool play.
The team performed well in a three test series against Australia in December losing narrowly in two and securing a draw in the 3rd – Australia are one of the favourites at this years World Cup.
The team is in good hands coaching wise with Peter Miskimmin confirmed as Head Coach and current Black Sticks Coach, Shane McLeod and Europe based Andrew Hastie as his assistants.
The Junior Black Sticks Men – 2009 World Cup team:
Joseph Bartholomew North Harbour
Shay Neal North Harbour
Marcus Child Auckland
Simon Child Auckland
Devon Manchester Auckland
Arun Panchia Auckland
Ricky Clarke Midlands
Callum Bailey Central
Nick Wilson Central
Blair Hilton Wellington
Stephen Jennes Wellington
Alex Schroder Wellington
Alex Shaw Wellington
George Connell Canterbury
Issac Staples Canterbury
Hugo Inglis Southern
Nick Ross Southern
Blair Tarrant Southern
Non travelling reserves:
Nick Capizzi North Harbour
Ian Daniels Midlands
Tom Lysaght Midlands
George Enerson Canterbury
Richard Bain Canterbury
Mitch Hayde Canterbury
New Zealand’s place in the World Cup was in serious doubt due to a lack of funding, however with their campaign now fully funded by the players and their families – they are confirmed starters. They will depart for Singapore on June 1st and return on June 22nd.
The Junior Black Sticks Men will face tough opposition in the form of India and Holland in their pool along with Poland and hosts Singapore. They will back themselves to knock Poland and Singapore over but will have to get points from either India or Holland to progress past pool play.
The team performed well in a three test series against Australia in December losing narrowly in two and securing a draw in the 3rd – Australia are one of the favourites at this years World Cup.
The team is in good hands coaching wise with Peter Miskimmin confirmed as Head Coach and current Black Sticks Coach, Shane McLeod and Europe based Andrew Hastie as his assistants.
The Junior Black Sticks Men – 2009 World Cup team:
Joseph Bartholomew North Harbour
Shay Neal North Harbour
Marcus Child Auckland
Simon Child Auckland
Devon Manchester Auckland
Arun Panchia Auckland
Ricky Clarke Midlands
Callum Bailey Central
Nick Wilson Central
Blair Hilton Wellington
Stephen Jennes Wellington
Alex Schroder Wellington
Alex Shaw Wellington
George Connell Canterbury
Issac Staples Canterbury
Hugo Inglis Southern
Nick Ross Southern
Blair Tarrant Southern
Non travelling reserves:
Nick Capizzi North Harbour
Ian Daniels Midlands
Tom Lysaght Midlands
George Enerson Canterbury
Richard Bain Canterbury
Mitch Hayde Canterbury
Monday, February 23, 2009
NRL BOARD
The National Rugby League Board has today unanimously reinforced the view that clubs could not release players for ‘guest contracts’ to rival codes either directly or by creating off-season ‘windows’ between contracts.
While the Board accepted any player’s individual right to change codes, there remained a clear view that a player had to fully commit to one code or another at any given time.
“In essence the Board’s view is that Rugby League is not a part-time occupation,” NRL Chief Executive, Mr David Gallop, said today.
“The game and its commercial partners invest millions of dollars each year in creating an environment that is unmatched in intensity and excitement.
“You can’t maintain that while allowing rival codes, rival sponsors and rival networks to market NRL players at the same time.
“The Board feels that there can be no question, therefore, that the NRL has a clear stake in this issue.
“We also have to be careful not to allow managers and clubs to open artificial arrangements that circumvent the salary cap.”
The NRL Board today also endorsed the progress of the ‘two-referee’ model being introduced in the 2009 Telstra Premiership.
It said that the progress of the model through the trials had been extremely positive to date.
While the Board accepted any player’s individual right to change codes, there remained a clear view that a player had to fully commit to one code or another at any given time.
“In essence the Board’s view is that Rugby League is not a part-time occupation,” NRL Chief Executive, Mr David Gallop, said today.
“The game and its commercial partners invest millions of dollars each year in creating an environment that is unmatched in intensity and excitement.
“You can’t maintain that while allowing rival codes, rival sponsors and rival networks to market NRL players at the same time.
“The Board feels that there can be no question, therefore, that the NRL has a clear stake in this issue.
“We also have to be careful not to allow managers and clubs to open artificial arrangements that circumvent the salary cap.”
The NRL Board today also endorsed the progress of the ‘two-referee’ model being introduced in the 2009 Telstra Premiership.
It said that the progress of the model through the trials had been extremely positive to date.
O'Donnell to join BLACKCAPS coaching team for India series
Mark O'Donnell, coach of the State Auckland Aces, is to join the BLACKCAPS support team as Assistant Coach for the National Bank Series against India.
O'Donnell, who has previously toured on the BLACKCAPS coaching staff, will join coach Andy Moles, bowling coach Shane Jurgensen and the the squad before the first One-Day International in Napier on 3 March. He spent the day with the team at training in Lincoln today.
Andy Moles said O'Donnell would make a significant contribution to the support team. "Mark has a long and successful track-record of coaching around the world at first class and international level," he said. "With Mark and Shane on board we have an outstanding coaching team that will support the playing squad and help them perform at their very best."
Auckland Cricket chief excutive Andrew Eade said although Auckland would be disappointed to lose Mark for the important final rounds of the State Championship, "we recognize it is a wonderful opportunity for him and we wish him well with the BLACKCAPS. A decision on the replacement coach for the State Auckland Aces for the remainder of this season will be made later this week.”
O'Donnell, who has previously toured on the BLACKCAPS coaching staff, will join coach Andy Moles, bowling coach Shane Jurgensen and the the squad before the first One-Day International in Napier on 3 March. He spent the day with the team at training in Lincoln today.
Andy Moles said O'Donnell would make a significant contribution to the support team. "Mark has a long and successful track-record of coaching around the world at first class and international level," he said. "With Mark and Shane on board we have an outstanding coaching team that will support the playing squad and help them perform at their very best."
Auckland Cricket chief excutive Andrew Eade said although Auckland would be disappointed to lose Mark for the important final rounds of the State Championship, "we recognize it is a wonderful opportunity for him and we wish him well with the BLACKCAPS. A decision on the replacement coach for the State Auckland Aces for the remainder of this season will be made later this week.”
Beginner’s luck
It could have been dismissed as beginner’s luck in Round 1 but the Melbourne Storm have well and truly rocked the SG Ball Cup competition after a consecutive upset victory at the weekend.
The SG Ball Cup (Under-18) newcomers stunned heavyweights Canberra 32-22 in Melbourne at the weekend backing up from an 18-14 win against Newcastle in their competition debut in Round 1.
The Storm join fellow SG Ball Cup debutants the Newtown Jets in enjoying a dream start to the NSWRL Junior Representative season after two rounds of action.
The Jets were 44-22 winners over Western Suburbs at the weekend, continuing their good early season form which saw them down the Bulldogs 20-16 in the opening round.
Meanwhile, the Gold Coast Titans have notched their maiden victory in the Harold Matthews Cup (Under-16) competition by smashing St George 38-8 in Tugun.
NSWRL Academy’s Coaching and Development Manager Martin Meredith said the upsets were great news for the competitions.
“Melbourne’s great form in their first season of SG Ball Cup competition is an example of Rugby League’s ability to build and strengthen its playing base outside of traditional breeding grounds of NSW and Queensland,” Meredith said.
“Similarly, the Gold Coast Titans Harold Matthews Cup side are competing in the competition for the first time and have hit the ground running.
“It all bodes well for Rugby League because the stronger these competitions are now, the stronger our elite senior competitions like the NRL will be in years to come.”
The Storm SG Ball Cup team will look to continue their giant-killing run this weekend when they travel to the Gold Coast to take on the Titans in Round 3 of the NSWRL Junior Representative season.
WHAT: NSWRL Junior Representative Season, Rd 3
WHERE: Various locations (see attached draw)
WHEN: Saturday 28th February
The SG Ball Cup (Under-18) newcomers stunned heavyweights Canberra 32-22 in Melbourne at the weekend backing up from an 18-14 win against Newcastle in their competition debut in Round 1.
The Storm join fellow SG Ball Cup debutants the Newtown Jets in enjoying a dream start to the NSWRL Junior Representative season after two rounds of action.
The Jets were 44-22 winners over Western Suburbs at the weekend, continuing their good early season form which saw them down the Bulldogs 20-16 in the opening round.
Meanwhile, the Gold Coast Titans have notched their maiden victory in the Harold Matthews Cup (Under-16) competition by smashing St George 38-8 in Tugun.
NSWRL Academy’s Coaching and Development Manager Martin Meredith said the upsets were great news for the competitions.
“Melbourne’s great form in their first season of SG Ball Cup competition is an example of Rugby League’s ability to build and strengthen its playing base outside of traditional breeding grounds of NSW and Queensland,” Meredith said.
“Similarly, the Gold Coast Titans Harold Matthews Cup side are competing in the competition for the first time and have hit the ground running.
“It all bodes well for Rugby League because the stronger these competitions are now, the stronger our elite senior competitions like the NRL will be in years to come.”
The Storm SG Ball Cup team will look to continue their giant-killing run this weekend when they travel to the Gold Coast to take on the Titans in Round 3 of the NSWRL Junior Representative season.
WHAT: NSWRL Junior Representative Season, Rd 3
WHERE: Various locations (see attached draw)
WHEN: Saturday 28th February
Crusaders injuries update
Scan confirms broken arm for Flynn
Crusaders hooker Corey Flynn is likely to miss the rest of the Rebel Sport Super 14 season after re-breaking his left arm in the match against the Brumbies in Canberra on Saturday night.
A CT scan today revealed a complete fracture of the radius – the same one he broke while playing for the All Blacks on their end-of-year tour of the United Kingdom.
Flynn will now discuss his options with an orthopaedic surgeon.
Flynn’s place will be taken by Jason Macdonald, with wider training group hooker Daniel Perrin called into the squad as cover.
Halfback Andy Ellis, who also left the field early on Saturday night with an injury, will have his ankle sprain reviewed this week as to his availability for Friday night’s match against the Hurricanes at AMI Stadium.
Tyson Keats has been brought into the squad as halfback cover. Kahn Fotuali’i will wear the No9 jersey if Ellis is ruled out.
The availability of flanker Richie McCaw (concussion) and Brad Thorn (heel) will also be reviewed this week.
Fullback Leon MacDonald (shoulder) will definitely not be available.
Crusaders head coach Todd Blackadder said the injuries were tough on the individuals concerned but added that he was confident their replacements would make the necessary step up.
“It’s really unfortunate, especially for Corey who has had some terrible luck with both of his arms,” Blackadder said.
“However, we’ll still put a very competitive team on the field for the Hurricanes game. We learned some key things in the loss to the Brumbies and the players are very keen to put them into practice on Friday night.”
Crusaders hooker Corey Flynn is likely to miss the rest of the Rebel Sport Super 14 season after re-breaking his left arm in the match against the Brumbies in Canberra on Saturday night.
A CT scan today revealed a complete fracture of the radius – the same one he broke while playing for the All Blacks on their end-of-year tour of the United Kingdom.
Flynn will now discuss his options with an orthopaedic surgeon.
Flynn’s place will be taken by Jason Macdonald, with wider training group hooker Daniel Perrin called into the squad as cover.
Halfback Andy Ellis, who also left the field early on Saturday night with an injury, will have his ankle sprain reviewed this week as to his availability for Friday night’s match against the Hurricanes at AMI Stadium.
Tyson Keats has been brought into the squad as halfback cover. Kahn Fotuali’i will wear the No9 jersey if Ellis is ruled out.
The availability of flanker Richie McCaw (concussion) and Brad Thorn (heel) will also be reviewed this week.
Fullback Leon MacDonald (shoulder) will definitely not be available.
Crusaders head coach Todd Blackadder said the injuries were tough on the individuals concerned but added that he was confident their replacements would make the necessary step up.
“It’s really unfortunate, especially for Corey who has had some terrible luck with both of his arms,” Blackadder said.
“However, we’ll still put a very competitive team on the field for the Hurricanes game. We learned some key things in the loss to the Brumbies and the players are very keen to put them into practice on Friday night.”
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.
Loeb Takes 49th Wrc Victory With Norway Win
Sébastien Loeb claimed his 49th World Rally Championship victory in Norway at the weekend as he won a thrilling battle with rival Mikko Hirvonen. With his first win on the event, five-times World Champion Loeb now stands just one win away from becoming the first rally driver ever to claim 50 victories at the highest level.
After securing the opening Rally of 2009 in Ireland, Loeb and co-driver Daniel Elena ran at the head of the field from day one but, despite the disadvantage of being the first cars to sweep away the loose snow on each stage, they managed to stay out front throughout the weekend.
Entering the final day with just 15 seconds’ advantage, Loeb lost five seconds to Hirvonen on the first stage before gaining six seconds back on the next. The two drivers then traded fastest times throughout the rest of the day and, with Loeb quickest in the final stage, victory went to the Citroën Total team.
"Mentally, this has been a very tough rally,” said Loeb, who now holds a six-point lead in the championship. “It got very tense when I learnt that Mikko had narrowed the gap on this morning's first stage but we didn't ease up, even if that did mean having one or two hairy moments! Going into the last stage, I knew that even a small mistake would ruin all the hard work we have put in this weekend. Everything turned out well, however, and it's great to have won this rally for the first time."
After coming second in Ireland, Loeb’s team-mate Dani Sordo and co-driver Marc Marti finished fifth in their C4 WRC and helped to maintain Citroën’s 10-point lead in the Manufacturers’ Championship. Driving an independent, three-year-old Citroën Xsara for the first time in the WRC, 2003 Champion Petter Solberg finished an impressive sixth.
The next rally will be on the third different surface of the year, the gravel-based Rally Cyprus from 13-15 March.
Final leaderboard on Rally Norway*
1. S. Loeb/D. Elena (Citroën C4) 3h28min15.9s
2. M. Hirvonen/J. Lehtinen (Ford Focus) +9.8s
3. J-M. Latvala /M. Anttila (Ford Focus) +1min 21.8s
4. H. Solberg/C. Menkerud (Ford Focus) +3min 33.5s
5. D. Sordo/M. Marti (Citroën C4) +3min 52.0s
6. P. Solberg/P. Mills (Citroën Xsara) +6min 25.4s
FIA World Rally Championship Manufacturer Standings after round 2 of 12*
1st Citroën Total WRT, 32 pts; 2nd BP Ford Abu Dhabi, 22 points; 3rd Stobart VK M-Sport, 16 pts; 4th Citroën Junior Team, 7 pts.
FIA World Rally Championship Driver Standings after round 2 of 12*
1st S. Loeb, 20 pts; 2nd M. Hirvonen, 14 pts; 3rd D. Sordo, 12 points; 4th H. Solberg, 10 pts; 5th J-M Latvala, 6 pts; 6th C. Atkinson, 4 pts
*All results subject to FIA confirmation.
After securing the opening Rally of 2009 in Ireland, Loeb and co-driver Daniel Elena ran at the head of the field from day one but, despite the disadvantage of being the first cars to sweep away the loose snow on each stage, they managed to stay out front throughout the weekend.
Entering the final day with just 15 seconds’ advantage, Loeb lost five seconds to Hirvonen on the first stage before gaining six seconds back on the next. The two drivers then traded fastest times throughout the rest of the day and, with Loeb quickest in the final stage, victory went to the Citroën Total team.
"Mentally, this has been a very tough rally,” said Loeb, who now holds a six-point lead in the championship. “It got very tense when I learnt that Mikko had narrowed the gap on this morning's first stage but we didn't ease up, even if that did mean having one or two hairy moments! Going into the last stage, I knew that even a small mistake would ruin all the hard work we have put in this weekend. Everything turned out well, however, and it's great to have won this rally for the first time."
After coming second in Ireland, Loeb’s team-mate Dani Sordo and co-driver Marc Marti finished fifth in their C4 WRC and helped to maintain Citroën’s 10-point lead in the Manufacturers’ Championship. Driving an independent, three-year-old Citroën Xsara for the first time in the WRC, 2003 Champion Petter Solberg finished an impressive sixth.
The next rally will be on the third different surface of the year, the gravel-based Rally Cyprus from 13-15 March.
Final leaderboard on Rally Norway*
1. S. Loeb/D. Elena (Citroën C4) 3h28min15.9s
2. M. Hirvonen/J. Lehtinen (Ford Focus) +9.8s
3. J-M. Latvala /M. Anttila (Ford Focus) +1min 21.8s
4. H. Solberg/C. Menkerud (Ford Focus) +3min 33.5s
5. D. Sordo/M. Marti (Citroën C4) +3min 52.0s
6. P. Solberg/P. Mills (Citroën Xsara) +6min 25.4s
FIA World Rally Championship Manufacturer Standings after round 2 of 12*
1st Citroën Total WRT, 32 pts; 2nd BP Ford Abu Dhabi, 22 points; 3rd Stobart VK M-Sport, 16 pts; 4th Citroën Junior Team, 7 pts.
FIA World Rally Championship Driver Standings after round 2 of 12*
1st S. Loeb, 20 pts; 2nd M. Hirvonen, 14 pts; 3rd D. Sordo, 12 points; 4th H. Solberg, 10 pts; 5th J-M Latvala, 6 pts; 6th C. Atkinson, 4 pts
*All results subject to FIA confirmation.
Final countdown to New Zealand’s first stage mountain bike race
With tyres pumped, bags packed and last minute training taken care of, mountain bikers from around New Zealand are counting down the hours to the start of the inaugural Skins Alpine Epic on Wednesday (25 February).
New Zealand’s first stage mountain bike race, to be held from 25 to 28 February, will see teams of two battle it out over 259km of picture postcard scenery from the Canterbury foothills of Mt Somers through the Southern Alps to Lake Tekapo in Mount Cook/Mackenzie country.
Competitors will finish on the shores of Lake Tekapo with the spectacular backdrop of the Southern Alps behind them.
Event co-organiser Nick Ross predicts first place will be a battle of epic proportions between New Zealand’s top cross-country mountain biker and Olympian Kashi Leuchs (pronounced Cashy Lukes) teamed up with fellow national rep Marcus Roy, and well-known endurance athlete Mark Williams from Queenstown with team-mate Scott Wilder, a competitive road cyclist from Christchurch.
Naming rights sponsor Skins, a specialist in body-moulded compression performance equipment, has further incentivised racers by pledging $5,000 cash for overall place getters.
Mr Ross says securing key sponsorship from Skins has been very important.
“We wanted a strong naming rights sponsor whose values closely aligned with that of the event and who would actively want to be involved. Skins have given us both – in fact, Skins’ managing director David Watt will be on the start line as a competitor.
“In a multi-day race format it’s crucial for athletes to recover as much as possible each night in order to meet the next day’s challenge,” says Mr Ross. “Skins is a perfect fit for the Alpine Epic because it optimises performance and recovery.”
Destination Mt Cook Mackenzie General Manager Phil Brownie, a race entrant himself who has teamed up with Cathy Richards from Visit Waimakariri, is expecting a large crowd of supporters and locals to be at the finish line cheering racers across.
“Everyone’s really excited about it. I’m expecting a big Mackenzie contingent to be there so we should have a decent cheer squad to welcome us in. It’s just as well – I’ll probably need it!” he jokes.
The four-day event will round off with a banquet and prizegiving at an original high-country homestead in Tekapo.
For daily race results and photos visit www.alpineepic.co.nz
Rene Ranger suspended for one match
Blues winger Rene Ranger was suspended for one match following a SANZAR judicial hearing in Pretoria, South Africa on Sunday.
He was found guilty of a dangerous tackle during the Super 14 match between the Blues and Bulls in Pretoria on Saturday.
The judicial officer found Ranger guilty of making a high and late tackle on Bulls hooker Derick Kuun in the 32nd minute of the first of the match. Kuun required treatment in the blood bin as a result of the tackle.
The ban means Ranger will not be available for the Blues’ match against the Stormers in Cape Town on Saturday.
Lions players Jannie Boshoff and Heinke van der Merwe will appear before a SANZAR judicial officer on Tuesday after being cited for a dangerous tackle on Francois Steyn in the 76th minute of the match between the Sharks and the Lions on Saturday.
He was found guilty of a dangerous tackle during the Super 14 match between the Blues and Bulls in Pretoria on Saturday.
The judicial officer found Ranger guilty of making a high and late tackle on Bulls hooker Derick Kuun in the 32nd minute of the first of the match. Kuun required treatment in the blood bin as a result of the tackle.
The ban means Ranger will not be available for the Blues’ match against the Stormers in Cape Town on Saturday.
Lions players Jannie Boshoff and Heinke van der Merwe will appear before a SANZAR judicial officer on Tuesday after being cited for a dangerous tackle on Francois Steyn in the 76th minute of the match between the Sharks and the Lions on Saturday.
Switzerland Take Feature Race Victory in South Africa
Switzerland’s Neel Jani claimed victory in this afternoon’s Go-GP.Org A1GP Gauteng, South Africa Feature race with a fantastic drive from fifth on the grid. The win means the Neel Jani equals the all-time win record for a driver, Nico Hulkenberg’s record of nine wins for Germany.
Jani finished 13.176 seconds ahead of Brazil’s Felipe Guimarães, the 17-year-old putting in a mature drive to record the team’s best result of the year at the Kyalami circuit.
Pole-sitter Clivio Piccione finished in third for Monaco after losing the lead to Switzerland in the first round of pit stops and then dropping behind Brazil after making a mistake.
Switzerland is now top of the 2008/09 A1GP World Cup of Motorsport standings with A1 Team Ireland crashing out on lap one after an incident with Malaysia.
Jani finished 13.176 seconds ahead of Brazil’s Felipe Guimarães, the 17-year-old putting in a mature drive to record the team’s best result of the year at the Kyalami circuit.
Pole-sitter Clivio Piccione finished in third for Monaco after losing the lead to Switzerland in the first round of pit stops and then dropping behind Brazil after making a mistake.
Switzerland is now top of the 2008/09 A1GP World Cup of Motorsport standings with A1 Team Ireland crashing out on lap one after an incident with Malaysia.
The Netherlands Take First Win in 45 Races
22/2/09
Jeroen Bleekemolen took the Netherlands’ first victory in 45 races in this morning’s Go-GP.Org A1GP Gauteng, South Africa Sprint race.
Bleekemolen drove a faultless race around the 2.65-mile Kyalami circuit to win by 4.407-seconds from Portugal’s Filipe Albuquerque. Switzerland’s Neel Jani had a good start to move up to second off the standing start, but finished third after losing time trying to manoeuvre round Malaysia’s car, which had pitted in front of him.
Jeroen Bleekemolen took the Netherlands’ first victory in 45 races in this morning’s Go-GP.Org A1GP Gauteng, South Africa Sprint race.
Bleekemolen drove a faultless race around the 2.65-mile Kyalami circuit to win by 4.407-seconds from Portugal’s Filipe Albuquerque. Switzerland’s Neel Jani had a good start to move up to second off the standing start, but finished third after losing time trying to manoeuvre round Malaysia’s car, which had pitted in front of him.
UNDER-STRENGTH VODAFONE JUNIOR WARRIORS LOSE TRIAL TO AUCKLAND VULCANS
An injury-depleted Vodafone Junior Warriors side had a 22-48 trial loss to the Auckland Vulcans at North Harbour Stadium today (Sunday).
While the match was a preseason hit-out for the Vodafone Junior Warriors ahead of their NYC campaign, it was also a trial for the Vulcans as they build up to the New South Wales Cup.
Included in the Vulcans’ side were five members of the Vodafone Warriors’ NRL squad in experienced standoff Michael Witt, halfbacks Isaac John and Liam Foran, prop Herman Retzlaff and utility Aaron Heremaia.
Missing several of their first-choice players, the Vodafone Junior Warriors were 6-26 behind after 25 minutes – Witt and Heremaia were among the Vulcans’ try scorers – before recovering through fullback Kevin Locke’s brilliance. He scored twice in three minutes to trim the margin to 16-26 not long before halftime.
When centre Siuatonga Likiliki crossed in the second half, the Vodafone Junior Warriors were still in contention at 22-32 but the last quarter was largely one-way traffic as the Vulcans snared another three tries.
The Tony Iro-coached side will have its only full NYC trial when it faces the Gold Coast Titans in Lismore next Saturday.
Match details:
At North Harbour Stadium, Albany
Vodafone Junior Warriors 22 (Kevin Locke 2, Shaun Johnson, Siuatonga Likiliki tries; Shaun Johnson 2 conversions; Kevin Locke conversion).
Auckland Vulcans 48 (Raymond Ioane, Sione Tuitonga, Michael Witt, Shaun Metcalfe, Aaron Heremaia, Jeremiah Pai, Aaron Pawley, Taavili Leanoa, Justin Bernard tries; Michael Witt 4 conversions; Liam Foran 2 conversions).
Halftime: 32-16 Vulcans.
While the match was a preseason hit-out for the Vodafone Junior Warriors ahead of their NYC campaign, it was also a trial for the Vulcans as they build up to the New South Wales Cup.
Included in the Vulcans’ side were five members of the Vodafone Warriors’ NRL squad in experienced standoff Michael Witt, halfbacks Isaac John and Liam Foran, prop Herman Retzlaff and utility Aaron Heremaia.
Missing several of their first-choice players, the Vodafone Junior Warriors were 6-26 behind after 25 minutes – Witt and Heremaia were among the Vulcans’ try scorers – before recovering through fullback Kevin Locke’s brilliance. He scored twice in three minutes to trim the margin to 16-26 not long before halftime.
When centre Siuatonga Likiliki crossed in the second half, the Vodafone Junior Warriors were still in contention at 22-32 but the last quarter was largely one-way traffic as the Vulcans snared another three tries.
The Tony Iro-coached side will have its only full NYC trial when it faces the Gold Coast Titans in Lismore next Saturday.
Match details:
At North Harbour Stadium, Albany
Vodafone Junior Warriors 22 (Kevin Locke 2, Shaun Johnson, Siuatonga Likiliki tries; Shaun Johnson 2 conversions; Kevin Locke conversion).
Auckland Vulcans 48 (Raymond Ioane, Sione Tuitonga, Michael Witt, Shaun Metcalfe, Aaron Heremaia, Jeremiah Pai, Aaron Pawley, Taavili Leanoa, Justin Bernard tries; Michael Witt 4 conversions; Liam Foran 2 conversions).
Halftime: 32-16 Vulcans.
VODAFONE WARRIORS GO BACK-TO-BACK WITH TRIAL WIN AGAINST COWBOYS
Kiwi winger Manu Vatuvei maintained his rich vein of try-scoring form with a 75th-minute match-winner in the Vodafone Warriors’ second straight preseason victory on Sunday.
Vatuvei’s strike broke a 28-28 deadlock to give his side a 32-28 victory over North Queensland in front of an impressive 16,500-strong crowd at Albany’s North Harbour Stadium.
Vatuvei (22) scored 22 tries in 23 matches for the Kiwis, Vodafone Warriors and All Golds last year with 16 of those coming in 17 matches for his club.
And today’s four-pointer followed his match-sealing try in the Vodafone Warriors’ 24-12 trial win against Melbourne in Hamilton on February 12.
This was a trial that featured World Cup-winning Kiwis Simon Mannering, Nathan Fien and Jerome Ropati in their first run this season along with captain Steve Price and Brent Tate. Mannering, Fien, Price and Tate all started the match – Fien at halfback – with Ropati used for the second half only.
There was instant joy for the Vodafone Warriors when North Queensland knocked on from the kick-off and a minute later Fien’s cross-field bomb gifted Patrick Ah Van a try.
Only four minutes later ex-Bronco Joel Moon, teamed in the halves with Fien, ran superbly onto an Ian Henderson off load, stepping past the defence to give the home side a 10-0 lead.
While the Cowboys responded with two tries through some defensive lapses by the Vodafone Warriors, it was one of New Zealand’s World Cup heroes Lance Hohaia – on at fullback for the second 20 minutes – who re-ignited his side by cutting through North Queensland’s defence near his own line on a 90-metre run for a spectacular try.
Just before halftime and just after it, the Vodafone Warriors conceded soft tries to Shane Tronc, Carl Webb and Johnathan Thurston enabling the Cowboys to surge to a 28-16 lead with 20 minutes to go.
But the last quarter belonged to the Vodafone Warriors.
Stacey Jones was a key figure in the first of three tries in the space of 11 minutes (he was at halfback for the second half, first with Fien at standoff and then with Moon to finish the match).
Reading the situation perfectly, he floated out a lovely long ball for Malo Solomona to score wide out, Moon providing the extras.
Inside the last 10 minutes Moon had newcomer Lewis Brown, signed from Wests Tigers, running a great line to take his pass for another four-pointer. Moon’s conversion levelled the game up at 28-28 before the Vodafone Warriors created an opportunity for Vatuvei which he was never going to pass up, slipping three defenders in a power-packed surge to the line.
While the use of two referees in the Hamilton trial had run smoothly, it wasn’t as successful today.
Ashley Klein and Alan Shortall shared the whistle and racked up a total of 28 penalties between them, the count favouring the Vodafone Warriors 15-13. After numerous penalties for holding down offences, the Cowboys had Ashley Graham and Ty Williams men sin-binned inside the last 10 minutes, meaning the visitors finished the game with only 11 men on the field.
Match details:
At North Harbour Stadium, Albany
Vodafone Warriors 32 (Patrick Ah Van, Joel Moon, Lance Hohaia, Malo Solomona, Lewis Brown, Manu Vatuvei tries; Denan Kemp 2 conversions; Joel Moon 2 conversions).
North Queensland Cowboys 28 (Ben Farrar, Willie Tonga, Shane Tronc, Carl Webb, Johnathan Thurston tries; John Williams 2 conversions; Johnathan Thurston 2 conversions).
Halftime: 18-16 Cowboys.
Referees: Ashley Klein and Alan Shortall.
Crowd: 16,500.
Vatuvei’s strike broke a 28-28 deadlock to give his side a 32-28 victory over North Queensland in front of an impressive 16,500-strong crowd at Albany’s North Harbour Stadium.
Vatuvei (22) scored 22 tries in 23 matches for the Kiwis, Vodafone Warriors and All Golds last year with 16 of those coming in 17 matches for his club.
And today’s four-pointer followed his match-sealing try in the Vodafone Warriors’ 24-12 trial win against Melbourne in Hamilton on February 12.
This was a trial that featured World Cup-winning Kiwis Simon Mannering, Nathan Fien and Jerome Ropati in their first run this season along with captain Steve Price and Brent Tate. Mannering, Fien, Price and Tate all started the match – Fien at halfback – with Ropati used for the second half only.
There was instant joy for the Vodafone Warriors when North Queensland knocked on from the kick-off and a minute later Fien’s cross-field bomb gifted Patrick Ah Van a try.
Only four minutes later ex-Bronco Joel Moon, teamed in the halves with Fien, ran superbly onto an Ian Henderson off load, stepping past the defence to give the home side a 10-0 lead.
While the Cowboys responded with two tries through some defensive lapses by the Vodafone Warriors, it was one of New Zealand’s World Cup heroes Lance Hohaia – on at fullback for the second 20 minutes – who re-ignited his side by cutting through North Queensland’s defence near his own line on a 90-metre run for a spectacular try.
Just before halftime and just after it, the Vodafone Warriors conceded soft tries to Shane Tronc, Carl Webb and Johnathan Thurston enabling the Cowboys to surge to a 28-16 lead with 20 minutes to go.
But the last quarter belonged to the Vodafone Warriors.
Stacey Jones was a key figure in the first of three tries in the space of 11 minutes (he was at halfback for the second half, first with Fien at standoff and then with Moon to finish the match).
Reading the situation perfectly, he floated out a lovely long ball for Malo Solomona to score wide out, Moon providing the extras.
Inside the last 10 minutes Moon had newcomer Lewis Brown, signed from Wests Tigers, running a great line to take his pass for another four-pointer. Moon’s conversion levelled the game up at 28-28 before the Vodafone Warriors created an opportunity for Vatuvei which he was never going to pass up, slipping three defenders in a power-packed surge to the line.
While the use of two referees in the Hamilton trial had run smoothly, it wasn’t as successful today.
Ashley Klein and Alan Shortall shared the whistle and racked up a total of 28 penalties between them, the count favouring the Vodafone Warriors 15-13. After numerous penalties for holding down offences, the Cowboys had Ashley Graham and Ty Williams men sin-binned inside the last 10 minutes, meaning the visitors finished the game with only 11 men on the field.
Match details:
At North Harbour Stadium, Albany
Vodafone Warriors 32 (Patrick Ah Van, Joel Moon, Lance Hohaia, Malo Solomona, Lewis Brown, Manu Vatuvei tries; Denan Kemp 2 conversions; Joel Moon 2 conversions).
North Queensland Cowboys 28 (Ben Farrar, Willie Tonga, Shane Tronc, Carl Webb, Johnathan Thurston tries; John Williams 2 conversions; Johnathan Thurston 2 conversions).
Halftime: 18-16 Cowboys.
Referees: Ashley Klein and Alan Shortall.
Crowd: 16,500.
Crusaders v Hurricanes AMI Stadium, Christchurch Friday 27 February, 19.35
THE BIG MATCH
History favours the home side … the Hurricanes have beaten the Crusaders just the once at AMI Stadium – a 41 – 29 cracker of a game in 2001. Christian Cullen scored two tries that day with two other handy players, Jonah Lomu and Tana Umaga, also chiming in with tries. The Canes drew 18-18 in 1999 in Christchurch with Cullen again scoring a brace. More recently, the Hurricanes lost the semifinal 22-33 in Christchurch last year and who can forget the Fog Final in 2006? The Crusaders won that day 19-12.
Expect some running rugby … the Crusaders and Hurricanes have played each other 15 times in Super rugby history with 11 wins to the Crusaders, three wins to the Canes and the one draw. The two sides have played attacking rugby in that time, with some big scores posted. The Crusaders have averaged 27 points in all games against the Hurricanes with the Canes averaging 19 points.
Crusaders of the future on show … Get to The Big Match early to see the up and coming rugby talent from Christchurch play. St Bede’s will play Christ’s College in the Secondary School Tens curtain-raiser. Kick off is 6.05pm. There will also be plenty of activities for junior rugby fans – with the R80 Rugby Zone interactive rugby playground up and running on the concourse.
Grassroots support … If the Crusaders have an extra spring in their step, they can thank the AMI Stadium turf for it – the playing pitch at AMI Stadium has been redeveloped recently with real grass grown in strips on a synthetic base which can be dropped in and pulled out as needed. Drainage is vastly improved and any heavy wear areas damaged during games or concerts etc. can be easily replaced.
Mate against mate … Thomas Waldrom v Rodney So’oialo will be one of the key match ups of The Big Match. Waldrom moved from the Hurricanes to the Crusaders this year and Friday’s game will be the first time they have met in opposing Super 14 sides. It’s not only So’oialo that Waldrom has to look out for … older brother Scott, the Hurricanes loose forward, will also be looking to give his bro the hurry up.
Other New Zealand matches – Week 3 (NZ Time)
Fri 27 Feb 9.40pm, Waratahs v Highlanders, Sydney
Sat 28 Feb 7.35pm, Chiefs v Sharks, Hamilton
Sun 1 Mar 6.10pm, Stormers v Blues, Cape Town
History favours the home side … the Hurricanes have beaten the Crusaders just the once at AMI Stadium – a 41 – 29 cracker of a game in 2001. Christian Cullen scored two tries that day with two other handy players, Jonah Lomu and Tana Umaga, also chiming in with tries. The Canes drew 18-18 in 1999 in Christchurch with Cullen again scoring a brace. More recently, the Hurricanes lost the semifinal 22-33 in Christchurch last year and who can forget the Fog Final in 2006? The Crusaders won that day 19-12.
Expect some running rugby … the Crusaders and Hurricanes have played each other 15 times in Super rugby history with 11 wins to the Crusaders, three wins to the Canes and the one draw. The two sides have played attacking rugby in that time, with some big scores posted. The Crusaders have averaged 27 points in all games against the Hurricanes with the Canes averaging 19 points.
Crusaders of the future on show … Get to The Big Match early to see the up and coming rugby talent from Christchurch play. St Bede’s will play Christ’s College in the Secondary School Tens curtain-raiser. Kick off is 6.05pm. There will also be plenty of activities for junior rugby fans – with the R80 Rugby Zone interactive rugby playground up and running on the concourse.
Grassroots support … If the Crusaders have an extra spring in their step, they can thank the AMI Stadium turf for it – the playing pitch at AMI Stadium has been redeveloped recently with real grass grown in strips on a synthetic base which can be dropped in and pulled out as needed. Drainage is vastly improved and any heavy wear areas damaged during games or concerts etc. can be easily replaced.
Mate against mate … Thomas Waldrom v Rodney So’oialo will be one of the key match ups of The Big Match. Waldrom moved from the Hurricanes to the Crusaders this year and Friday’s game will be the first time they have met in opposing Super 14 sides. It’s not only So’oialo that Waldrom has to look out for … older brother Scott, the Hurricanes loose forward, will also be looking to give his bro the hurry up.
Other New Zealand matches – Week 3 (NZ Time)
Fri 27 Feb 9.40pm, Waratahs v Highlanders, Sydney
Sat 28 Feb 7.35pm, Chiefs v Sharks, Hamilton
Sun 1 Mar 6.10pm, Stormers v Blues, Cape Town
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Queenstown provides thrills off the court for the NSW Swifts
The New South Wales Swifts, in Queenstown for a pre-season tournament prior to the ANZ Championships, took time out this afternoon (Sunday 22 February) to enjoy a jetboat ride on the iconic Shotover Jet.
The team, which won the ANZ Championship last year, flew into Queenstown on Thursday for a three-day tournament at the Queenstown Events Centre which showcased some of the world’s best netball players.
Hosted by local team the Ascot Park Hotel Southern Steel, the Swifts also faced teams the Northern Mystics, Central Pulse and the Australian Institute of Sport. The Swifts won four of their five games, losing to the Northern Mystics this morning.
NSW Swifts Head Coach Julie Fitzgerald said the team had enjoyed their time in the resort town and hopes they will return for the pre-season tournament next year.
“The whole trip has whetted our appetites for Queenstown. It’s the most beautiful place in the world. We all can’t wait to come back.”
“The Shotover Jet was a great activity to do as a team.” Julie said. “It has been an awesome experience, so much fun!”
Les McIntyre tribute
The National Rugby League and Australian Rugby League today mourn the passing of Mr Les McIntyre OAM, the man known throughout the game as the founding father of the Canberra Raiders.
Mr McIntyre, who was awarded his OAM for services to Rugby League and Community last year, passed away last night after a lengthy illness at the age of 93.
It was Les McIntyre, the Chairman of the Queanbeyan Leagues club, Secretary of the Queanbeyan Blues and Chairman of the CRL’s Group 8 who lobbied for Canberra’s introduction to the competition for the 1982 season.
The right to join Illawarra as one of two new expansion teams was no sure thing as the Raiders and Campbelltown put their cases to the NSWRL General Committee on the same night in March 1981, with the Raiders winning the vote 24-18.
It was a triumph for a lifetime’s dedication to Rugby League in the Queanbeyan-Canberra region for McIntyre who had been the ‘god-father’ of the project, who would be the Raiders first Chairman and who would be a guiding light behind the scenes for the club’s greatest triumphs.
“Les was a hugely influential figure for Canberra,” NRL Chief Executive, Mr David Gallop said.
“He is one of those people who helped broaden the game’s outlook to include new areas and who would ultimately see his club as the first to take the Premiership out of Sydney.”
Australian Rugby League Chief Executive, Mr Geoff Carr, added that Les was a passionate advocate for grass roots Rugby League and country football:
“He was one of those individuals who loved the game, he was on the Country Rugby League management Committee and was awarded life membership of both the CRL and NSWRL.
“He could be a tough old school negotiator but he helped build a powerful leagues club network that strengthened the game enormously in the area and gave us some of the Rugby Leagues biggest names.
Les is survived by his wife Elsie his son John (who is the current Raiders Chairman), five grand children and seven great grand children
Injuries : Crusaders / Brumbies match
The following is an injuries advisory from last night's Brumbies v Crusaders match at Canberra Stadium, won by the Brumbies 18-16.
Hooker Corey Flynn left the field just after halfway through the first half with a sore left arm - the same one he fractured during the All Blacks tour of the United Kingdom late last year.
He will be examined by medical staff in Christchurch tomorrow. The team arrives back in Christchurch late tonight.
Halfback Andy Ellis left the field midway through the second half with a high ankle sprain.
Injured All Blacks Richie McCaw (concussion), Brad Thorn (heel) and Leon MacDonald (shoulder) did not travel to Canberra and will be monitored this week. A decision on their availability for the Crusaders next match - against the Hurricanes at AMI Stadium on Friday night - will be made later in the week.
Wing Sean Maitland's hamstring injury has improved and he will train with the team this week.
Hooker Corey Flynn left the field just after halfway through the first half with a sore left arm - the same one he fractured during the All Blacks tour of the United Kingdom late last year.
He will be examined by medical staff in Christchurch tomorrow. The team arrives back in Christchurch late tonight.
Halfback Andy Ellis left the field midway through the second half with a high ankle sprain.
Injured All Blacks Richie McCaw (concussion), Brad Thorn (heel) and Leon MacDonald (shoulder) did not travel to Canberra and will be monitored this week. A decision on their availability for the Crusaders next match - against the Hurricanes at AMI Stadium on Friday night - will be made later in the week.
Wing Sean Maitland's hamstring injury has improved and he will train with the team this week.
Monaco and Netherlands take pole positions in South Africa
The Netherlands and Monaco were the toast of Kyalami today as their respective drivers, Jeroen Bleekemolen and Clivio Piccione, claimed the coveted pole position spots for the Sprint and Feature races of round Five of the 2008/09 A1GP World Cup of Motorsport season, Go-GP.Org A1GP Gauteng, South Africa. While it was pole number four for the Dutch driver it was the first ever for Monaco.
It proved to be an exciting qualifying afternoon at the 2.65-mile Kyalami circuit, which is 2000 metres above sea level. Both grids look very different thanks to the return of the PowerBoost qualifying rule, where teams got to choose when to engage an extra 60 brake horse power for the entirety of one of their four runs, and a big crash to Brazil’s Felipe Guimaraes in the final of the four qualifying segments. This accident caught the majority of the field out and prevented them from completing their final runs when the red flag was out.
A1 Team Portugal first took provisional pole position having gone fastest in the first segment of the day, however by the time the second Sprint qualifying segment had ended, Bleekemolen had made use of his PowerBoost lap to record a 1m 27.717 lap, 0.355s ahead of Albuquerque.
Reigning champion Switzerland will start the race third, with Neel Jani behind the wheel again showing good pace, recording a lap 0.436s adrift of Bleekemolen.
After a great start to the weekend, Lebanon had a disappointing time in qualifying. Morad looked to be on a good lap during the second segment while utilising his only PowerBoost of the session, but the car had a misfire and lost power ruining his final lap, also putting him out of Feature qualifying.
Monaco was also in good form, setting the fourth quickest time.
The stage was set for an epic Feature race qualifying, with many teams having not utilised their PowerBoost presses yet. In the first segment, Australia’s John Martin set the fastest time with a 1m 28.439s lap.
But the second qualifying segment came to an end a minute and a half early after Brazil‘s crash, with only five cars having chosen to go out setting a time prior to the accident.
Monaco, choosing to go early, had already recorded a time of 1m 27.269s before the red flag came out and therefore claimed the team’s first ever pole position in its debut season and at its ninth attempt.
Malaysia’s Fairuz Fauzy came back from a difficult day after losing all of today’s practice time due to an engine change earlier in the day. After also choosing to go out early, Fauzy’s time of 1m 27.405s puts him alongside Monaco on the front row.
New Zealand’s Earl Bamber will start third on his return to the team, having sat out his home race last month in Taupo.
A1 Team Germany made its season debut this weekend and will start the races in 11th and 15th with Michael Ammermüller back in the cockpit. Local South African driver Adrian Zaugg will start 8th and sixteenth.
A1 Team Mexico was excluded from Feature race qualifying for failing to stop at the weighing bay. The team will drop to the back of the grid from thirteenth.
Scuderia Ferrari Marlboro’s 2008 Formula 1 World Championship runner-up, Felipe Massa, also enjoyed his first visit to an A1GP event today, joining A1 Team Brazil for qualifying. Massa watched the sessions from the pit wall with team principal, and two-time F1 World Champion, Emerson Fittipaldi, before getting the opportunity to drive a hot lap of Kyalami in the A1GP Ferrari 599 safety car.
After qualifying Massa commented: “It’s really interesting visiting A1GP and I’ve enjoyed seeing the quality of the new car. The championship has a nice style. It’s quite competitive, so I’m happy to be here getting this first experience of watching A1GP. It’s an intelligent format to have countries against countries and a good idea.”
The drivers who had secured the top spots on the grid were even happier.
Sprint pole-sitter Jereon Bleekemolen commented: “I didn’t have a great lap, but it was still enough. It was good that we took at least one pole position.
“It’s always tricky with pit stops because anything can go wrong. I mean it’s the same for anyone so I think the guys are doing a great job so far, and they are getting very fast. Normally you shouldn’t be worried, but as a driver you want to do the job and finish the race in front so hopefully everything goes right.”
Portugal’s Filipe Albuquerque said: “I am really pleased with the pace because we were really on it. We were just slightly off pole position in the Sprint but I am not so happy in the Feature because we are seventh - that’s not what I want as we’re also behind Ireland and Switzerland. It’s always hard to overtake with experienced drivers, so it’s going to be hard for sure. But I will push so hard for it because I really need to start to get ahead of them if I want to continue to fight for the championship.”
Clivio Piccione was delighted to claim Monaco’s first pole position for tomorrow’s Feature race: “I think the whole thing for me was to be on form for the Feature race. We had a bit of a struggle at the beginning of the season but I think we found most of the problems, and now we’re back on the pace. I’m looking forward to the rest of the season – especially tomorrow.
“Monaco is such a small country and we have a huge heritage in motorsport and it’s great to have our Prince behind such a project. He has been following me since the beginning of my career and I’m very proud to have him on our side. The pressure is on. I mean, it’s a long race with two pit stops, so there are two major stages where it’s going to be tricky. It’s going to be pretty hot if it doesn’t rain tomorrow. It will be a tough race because I think it will be quite hard on the tyres but we’ll do our best and we’ll keep pushing.”
Malaysia’s Fauzy, who will line-up on the front row in tomorrow’s Feature race, commented: “We had a problem in Taupo with the engine; so we had a brand new engine fitted yesterday for the first rookie session but there was a problem so there was another last minute change today. We missed the practice session this morning so we were not sure which set up to use for the qualifying, and so just got the best information to put it together. I must say thank you to the team and Ferrari. They worked very hard to get the car ready for qualifying.”
The day began with two additional practice sessions aimed at giving the teams more time after slight delays in fitting additional parts to the cars to enable them to contend with Kyalami’s high altitude. Daniel Morad kept up Lebanon’s astounding pace this weekend in the first additional rookie session, with A1 Team China went fastest in the second session with Ho-Pin Tung.
A1 Team Netherlands became the team to beat going into qualifying topping the times in the final free practice session.
It proved to be an exciting qualifying afternoon at the 2.65-mile Kyalami circuit, which is 2000 metres above sea level. Both grids look very different thanks to the return of the PowerBoost qualifying rule, where teams got to choose when to engage an extra 60 brake horse power for the entirety of one of their four runs, and a big crash to Brazil’s Felipe Guimaraes in the final of the four qualifying segments. This accident caught the majority of the field out and prevented them from completing their final runs when the red flag was out.
A1 Team Portugal first took provisional pole position having gone fastest in the first segment of the day, however by the time the second Sprint qualifying segment had ended, Bleekemolen had made use of his PowerBoost lap to record a 1m 27.717 lap, 0.355s ahead of Albuquerque.
Reigning champion Switzerland will start the race third, with Neel Jani behind the wheel again showing good pace, recording a lap 0.436s adrift of Bleekemolen.
After a great start to the weekend, Lebanon had a disappointing time in qualifying. Morad looked to be on a good lap during the second segment while utilising his only PowerBoost of the session, but the car had a misfire and lost power ruining his final lap, also putting him out of Feature qualifying.
Monaco was also in good form, setting the fourth quickest time.
The stage was set for an epic Feature race qualifying, with many teams having not utilised their PowerBoost presses yet. In the first segment, Australia’s John Martin set the fastest time with a 1m 28.439s lap.
But the second qualifying segment came to an end a minute and a half early after Brazil‘s crash, with only five cars having chosen to go out setting a time prior to the accident.
Monaco, choosing to go early, had already recorded a time of 1m 27.269s before the red flag came out and therefore claimed the team’s first ever pole position in its debut season and at its ninth attempt.
Malaysia’s Fairuz Fauzy came back from a difficult day after losing all of today’s practice time due to an engine change earlier in the day. After also choosing to go out early, Fauzy’s time of 1m 27.405s puts him alongside Monaco on the front row.
New Zealand’s Earl Bamber will start third on his return to the team, having sat out his home race last month in Taupo.
A1 Team Germany made its season debut this weekend and will start the races in 11th and 15th with Michael Ammermüller back in the cockpit. Local South African driver Adrian Zaugg will start 8th and sixteenth.
A1 Team Mexico was excluded from Feature race qualifying for failing to stop at the weighing bay. The team will drop to the back of the grid from thirteenth.
Scuderia Ferrari Marlboro’s 2008 Formula 1 World Championship runner-up, Felipe Massa, also enjoyed his first visit to an A1GP event today, joining A1 Team Brazil for qualifying. Massa watched the sessions from the pit wall with team principal, and two-time F1 World Champion, Emerson Fittipaldi, before getting the opportunity to drive a hot lap of Kyalami in the A1GP Ferrari 599 safety car.
After qualifying Massa commented: “It’s really interesting visiting A1GP and I’ve enjoyed seeing the quality of the new car. The championship has a nice style. It’s quite competitive, so I’m happy to be here getting this first experience of watching A1GP. It’s an intelligent format to have countries against countries and a good idea.”
The drivers who had secured the top spots on the grid were even happier.
Sprint pole-sitter Jereon Bleekemolen commented: “I didn’t have a great lap, but it was still enough. It was good that we took at least one pole position.
“It’s always tricky with pit stops because anything can go wrong. I mean it’s the same for anyone so I think the guys are doing a great job so far, and they are getting very fast. Normally you shouldn’t be worried, but as a driver you want to do the job and finish the race in front so hopefully everything goes right.”
Portugal’s Filipe Albuquerque said: “I am really pleased with the pace because we were really on it. We were just slightly off pole position in the Sprint but I am not so happy in the Feature because we are seventh - that’s not what I want as we’re also behind Ireland and Switzerland. It’s always hard to overtake with experienced drivers, so it’s going to be hard for sure. But I will push so hard for it because I really need to start to get ahead of them if I want to continue to fight for the championship.”
Clivio Piccione was delighted to claim Monaco’s first pole position for tomorrow’s Feature race: “I think the whole thing for me was to be on form for the Feature race. We had a bit of a struggle at the beginning of the season but I think we found most of the problems, and now we’re back on the pace. I’m looking forward to the rest of the season – especially tomorrow.
“Monaco is such a small country and we have a huge heritage in motorsport and it’s great to have our Prince behind such a project. He has been following me since the beginning of my career and I’m very proud to have him on our side. The pressure is on. I mean, it’s a long race with two pit stops, so there are two major stages where it’s going to be tricky. It’s going to be pretty hot if it doesn’t rain tomorrow. It will be a tough race because I think it will be quite hard on the tyres but we’ll do our best and we’ll keep pushing.”
Malaysia’s Fauzy, who will line-up on the front row in tomorrow’s Feature race, commented: “We had a problem in Taupo with the engine; so we had a brand new engine fitted yesterday for the first rookie session but there was a problem so there was another last minute change today. We missed the practice session this morning so we were not sure which set up to use for the qualifying, and so just got the best information to put it together. I must say thank you to the team and Ferrari. They worked very hard to get the car ready for qualifying.”
The day began with two additional practice sessions aimed at giving the teams more time after slight delays in fitting additional parts to the cars to enable them to contend with Kyalami’s high altitude. Daniel Morad kept up Lebanon’s astounding pace this weekend in the first additional rookie session, with A1 Team China went fastest in the second session with Ho-Pin Tung.
A1 Team Netherlands became the team to beat going into qualifying topping the times in the final free practice session.
Jetstar Gold Coast Titans, Top End Challenge victory
An electrical storm at sunset provided the pre game entertainment at Darwin’s Richardson Park as the Jetstar Gold Coast Titans and the Cronulla Sharks delivered the top end an NRL spectacular.
The 9000 plus strong crowd didn't have to wait long for first points with Luke ODwyer’ barging his way over the line.
Making the most of the slippery conditions the Titans crossed again through Mark Minichiello, the boot of Scott Prince providing the Gold Coasters with a handy 12 point lead.
A dropped ball during the next set of six combined with some poor defence saw Cronulla reduce the deficit to six at the quarter time break.
Coach John Cartwright sent his starting 13 back out for the second period and after three minutes of play William Zillman looked set to register his first points in Titans colours, however the final pass from centre Josh graham was ruled forward.
Titan’s fans didn't have to wait too much longer for more points with Prince sending Brett Delaney through a yawning gap, the hardworking centre crossing untouched and taking the Titans to an eighteen , six lead.
Replacement forward Ian Donnelly then made an immediate impression, the big front rower barging over just seconds after taking the field.
Hit high early in the match, Jordan Atkins suffered a second high shot and was taken from the field, while at the other end of the field the Titans other winger, Esi Tonga found the try line after another Mat Rogers line break.
Esi’s good work was undone from the kick off with the Titans spilling possession, new Sharks signing Corey Hughes opening his point scoring account as the half time hooter sounded, the Titans in front twenty eight points to ten at the change.
As agreed both teams used the second stanza to experiment with their line up and it worked for the Titans with replacement five eighth Brad Davis weaving his way towards the line before flicking a pass out to Josh Graham who extended the Gold Coasters lead to twenty four points at the three quarter break.
After a period of play punctuated by handling errors, Cronulla’s Luke Simmons pounced on a grubber kick reducing the margin to eighteen points.
With new found sting in their forward pack, the Gold Coasters continually threatened the shark’s line, Brad Davis again bamboozling the Sharks defence before off loading to former storm flyer Sam Tagatese who crashed over between the uprights.
It was the final score of the night and the Jetstar Gold Coast Titans had collected the Top End challenge trophy, forty points to sixteen.
Coach John Cartwright delighted with the performance of his squad.
Cartwright said “It’s a trial and you cant get too carried away with the result, but what I was particularly pleased with was the effort of everyone from the starting thirteen right through to those replacements who came on and did their bit.”
“we let in a couple of soft tries and we won’t want to be doing that in a few weeks time, however I felt the entire forward pack really took control of the game at times and allowed our backline combinations to execute the game plan as we wanted to.”
Scott Prince playing his only trial before the Titans season opener against Newcastle on March 15 said the Titans tough pre season campaign had paid dividends in the tough humid conditions.
“We have certainly worked extremely hard on speed, strength and power during the off season with Chris Mclellan and I think it showed tonight, the forwards were great and laid a great platform for us to work with. There is definitely plenty to work with and we’ll only improve as a team the more we train and play together.”
The Jetstar Gold Coast Titans will play the New Zealand Warriors in their final pre-season trial at Lismore next weekend.
The 9000 plus strong crowd didn't have to wait long for first points with Luke ODwyer’ barging his way over the line.
Making the most of the slippery conditions the Titans crossed again through Mark Minichiello, the boot of Scott Prince providing the Gold Coasters with a handy 12 point lead.
A dropped ball during the next set of six combined with some poor defence saw Cronulla reduce the deficit to six at the quarter time break.
Coach John Cartwright sent his starting 13 back out for the second period and after three minutes of play William Zillman looked set to register his first points in Titans colours, however the final pass from centre Josh graham was ruled forward.
Titan’s fans didn't have to wait too much longer for more points with Prince sending Brett Delaney through a yawning gap, the hardworking centre crossing untouched and taking the Titans to an eighteen , six lead.
Replacement forward Ian Donnelly then made an immediate impression, the big front rower barging over just seconds after taking the field.
Hit high early in the match, Jordan Atkins suffered a second high shot and was taken from the field, while at the other end of the field the Titans other winger, Esi Tonga found the try line after another Mat Rogers line break.
Esi’s good work was undone from the kick off with the Titans spilling possession, new Sharks signing Corey Hughes opening his point scoring account as the half time hooter sounded, the Titans in front twenty eight points to ten at the change.
As agreed both teams used the second stanza to experiment with their line up and it worked for the Titans with replacement five eighth Brad Davis weaving his way towards the line before flicking a pass out to Josh Graham who extended the Gold Coasters lead to twenty four points at the three quarter break.
After a period of play punctuated by handling errors, Cronulla’s Luke Simmons pounced on a grubber kick reducing the margin to eighteen points.
With new found sting in their forward pack, the Gold Coasters continually threatened the shark’s line, Brad Davis again bamboozling the Sharks defence before off loading to former storm flyer Sam Tagatese who crashed over between the uprights.
It was the final score of the night and the Jetstar Gold Coast Titans had collected the Top End challenge trophy, forty points to sixteen.
Coach John Cartwright delighted with the performance of his squad.
Cartwright said “It’s a trial and you cant get too carried away with the result, but what I was particularly pleased with was the effort of everyone from the starting thirteen right through to those replacements who came on and did their bit.”
“we let in a couple of soft tries and we won’t want to be doing that in a few weeks time, however I felt the entire forward pack really took control of the game at times and allowed our backline combinations to execute the game plan as we wanted to.”
Scott Prince playing his only trial before the Titans season opener against Newcastle on March 15 said the Titans tough pre season campaign had paid dividends in the tough humid conditions.
“We have certainly worked extremely hard on speed, strength and power during the off season with Chris Mclellan and I think it showed tonight, the forwards were great and laid a great platform for us to work with. There is definitely plenty to work with and we’ll only improve as a team the more we train and play together.”
The Jetstar Gold Coast Titans will play the New Zealand Warriors in their final pre-season trial at Lismore next weekend.
A1GP Gauteng, South Africa - Qualifying Result
Round Five of the 2008/09 A1GP World Cup of Motorsport season got underway in South Africa this afternoon with the Netherlands’ Jeroen Bleekemolen and Monaco’s Clivio Piccione on pole position for tomorrow’s Go-GP.Org A1GP Gauteng, South Africa races.
Bleekemolen made use of his PowerBoost in the second segment of Sprint qualifying to record a 1m 27.717 lap, 0.355s ahead of Portugal’s Filipe Albuquerque. Reigning champions Switzerland will start third with Neel Jani behind the wheel.
Qualifying for the Feature race came to an early end after Brazil‘s Felipe Guimarães lost the back end of his car and ended in the tyre wall bringing out the red flag. Monaco took its first ever pole position in its debut season with Malaysia’ Fairuz Fauzy alongside him on the front row. New Zealand’s Earl Bamber will start third.
Local South African driver Adrian Zaugg will start eighth and sixteenth.
Bleekemolen made use of his PowerBoost in the second segment of Sprint qualifying to record a 1m 27.717 lap, 0.355s ahead of Portugal’s Filipe Albuquerque. Reigning champions Switzerland will start third with Neel Jani behind the wheel.
Qualifying for the Feature race came to an early end after Brazil‘s Felipe Guimarães lost the back end of his car and ended in the tyre wall bringing out the red flag. Monaco took its first ever pole position in its debut season with Malaysia’ Fairuz Fauzy alongside him on the front row. New Zealand’s Earl Bamber will start third.
Local South African driver Adrian Zaugg will start eighth and sixteenth.
BLACKCAPS squad named for Twenty20 matches against India
New Zealand Cricket has announced a squad of 13 for the two Twenty20 Internationals against India, in Christchurch on Wednesday [25 February] and Wellington on Friday [27 February]. The squad is:
Daniel Vettori (Captain)
Neil Broom
Ian Butler
Grant Elliott
Martin Guptill
Brendon McCullum
Nathan McCullum
Iain O’Brien
Jacob Oram
Jesse Ryder
Tim Southee
Ross Taylor
Ewen Thompson
Ryder and Oram return to the BLACKCAPS after layoffs through injury, although Oram will play as a batsman only. Ross Taylor, who injured his hamstring in last week’s Twenty20 game against Australia, has also been confirmed as fit to play.
Bowler Ewen Thompson returns to the squad after making his BLACKCAPS debut in the Twenty20 against the West Indies in December. Glenn Turner, head of the selection panel, said Thompson – currently second in the State MVP bowling rankings – had shown continuing good domestic form for the State Central Stags, including a four-wicket bag against the State Northern Knights. “Ewen comes in for Kyle Mills who is still recovering from injury to his Achilles tendon,” said Turner. “He will give the side additional strength as a specialist new ball and swing bowler.”
Daniel Vettori (Captain)
Neil Broom
Ian Butler
Grant Elliott
Martin Guptill
Brendon McCullum
Nathan McCullum
Iain O’Brien
Jacob Oram
Jesse Ryder
Tim Southee
Ross Taylor
Ewen Thompson
Ryder and Oram return to the BLACKCAPS after layoffs through injury, although Oram will play as a batsman only. Ross Taylor, who injured his hamstring in last week’s Twenty20 game against Australia, has also been confirmed as fit to play.
Bowler Ewen Thompson returns to the squad after making his BLACKCAPS debut in the Twenty20 against the West Indies in December. Glenn Turner, head of the selection panel, said Thompson – currently second in the State MVP bowling rankings – had shown continuing good domestic form for the State Central Stags, including a four-wicket bag against the State Northern Knights. “Ewen comes in for Kyle Mills who is still recovering from injury to his Achilles tendon,” said Turner. “He will give the side additional strength as a specialist new ball and swing bowler.”
Beattie Completes Blades Switch
CRAIG Beattie has joined Championship promotion-chasers Sheffield United on loan until the end of the season.
The Baggies have the option to recall the Scottish international after the first 28 days of his Bramall Lane spell.
It is Beattie's second loan move this season, having enjoyed a productive couple of months at Crystal Palace, where he smashed five goals before being recalled by the Baggies to ease an injury headache.
The ex-Celtic striker has since contributed to Albion's Barclays Premier League survival bid, making one start and six substitute appearances, and scoring the vital second goal in December's victory over Tottenham.
Beattie has been sidelined since the January 17 win against Middlesbrough with a groin problem but is now back to full fitness.
He faced increased competition up front following the January arrivals of loan duo Jay Simpson and Marc-Antoine Fortuné.
The 25-year-old has joined the Blades in time for tomorrow's league trip to Plymouth.
Kevin Blackwell's men occupy the final play-off berth and are nine points off the automatic-promotion places.
The Baggies have the option to recall the Scottish international after the first 28 days of his Bramall Lane spell.
It is Beattie's second loan move this season, having enjoyed a productive couple of months at Crystal Palace, where he smashed five goals before being recalled by the Baggies to ease an injury headache.
The ex-Celtic striker has since contributed to Albion's Barclays Premier League survival bid, making one start and six substitute appearances, and scoring the vital second goal in December's victory over Tottenham.
Beattie has been sidelined since the January 17 win against Middlesbrough with a groin problem but is now back to full fitness.
He faced increased competition up front following the January arrivals of loan duo Jay Simpson and Marc-Antoine Fortuné.
The 25-year-old has joined the Blades in time for tomorrow's league trip to Plymouth.
Kevin Blackwell's men occupy the final play-off berth and are nine points off the automatic-promotion places.
St Helens Appoint New Director
Caption: Eamonn (left) with Kevin (right)
ST HELENS Rugby League Club has appointed Kevin Marren its Board of Directors.
Kevin, aged 48, is a chartered accountant by profession and has spent 20 years in property investment and development.
He was Chief Executive of Elite Homes Group Limited and negotiated its sale to the Bovis Group in 2007. He is now Chairman of T123 Limited, a group involved in the distribution of parts to specialist vehicle suppliers.
Chairman Eamonn McManus stated: “I am delighted that Kevin has agreed to join the board. I have personally known him for more than 35 years. He is a dedicated Saints fan and brings highly relevant professional and business experience to the Club.”
Kevin Marren added: “I am very happy to be joining the board of the Saints at such an interesting and exciting time in the Club’s development.”
Tua vs Cameron
Saturday 21 February
Fighters shape up … so does the big fight
The promoters of the “Fight of the Century” have rejected suggestions on the front page of today’s New Zealand Herald that the big fight “doesn’t shape up”.
Promoter David Higgins of Duco Events said he found it dismaying and unprofessional that an Auckland City Councillor, Aaron Bhatnagar, had attempted to trash an event that leading commentators are calling the top New Zealand sports event of 2009.
Mr Higgins said that “although Aaron Bhatnagar may be the Chair of Auckland City Council’s Development Committee, his comments today merely underline the fact that he knows nothing at all about event promotion.
“Mr Bhatnagar brought up the recent David Beckham debacle in Auckland,” said Mr Higgins. “It was poor judgment by his council, which invested in the Beckham match, to imagine it could be successful. It displays even poorer judgement to see Tua vs Cameron as anything like the Beckham event.
“Tua vs Cameron is being organised by private sector experts with an impressive track record of success in event promotion. We believe the first step to staging a successful event is judgement. Backing events is about picking winners. It was obvious to us from early on that the Beckham event was unlikely to succeed. We wouldn’t have promoted it. David Tua vs Shane Cameron, on the other hand, is shaping up as New Zealand’s most notable sporting event of 2009.”
Mr Higgins said that his company had been undertaking a ‘due diligence’ of several potential locations and venues for Tua vs Cameron. The promoters were determined to undertake a rigorous research of the costs and benefits of each city and venue option before making a decision. He stated that whether or not a local city council supports the event was just one of many variables to be assessed.
“I should put it on record, notwithstanding Councillor Bhatnagar’s outburst, that Auckland City has offered us contra support and we see the Vector Arena as an attractive venue. So is Trusts Stadium in Waitakere -- and Waitakere have hosted very successful boxing events in recent times, most notably Dean Lonergan’s Fights for Life.
“Further south, Wellington’s TSB Arena is another good indoor venue and Wellington have let us know formally that they are excited by the event and believe Tua vs Cameron will be ‘ hugely successful’. Because Wellington’s track record as an events Mecca is widely respected, we appreciate the confidence they have expressed.
“Our reason for seeking investment in the event is that it will deliver substantial economic benefits to the host city and local businesses potentially worth several million dollars. It’s extraordinary that Mr Bhatnagar, as Chair of Auckland’s Development Committee, cannot see that: --
• The catering bill alone is likely to be worth more than one million dollars to local suppliers
• Dean Lonergan, who is managing our corporate sales, has a long waiting list of CEO’s and ‘high net worth individuals’ willing to pay more than $10,000 for ring-side tables
• The city that stages this event will be filled with spenders for at least the weekend of the fight and people from all walks of life will have the opportunity to experience a ‘once in a lifetime live event’
• Add popular build-up events, a public weigh-in, hotel room nights, restaurant and bar expenditure – and it’s easy to see that the bout will inject many millions of dollars into the host city’s economy during a recession.
Mr Higgins also condemned Aaron Bhatnagar’s action in leaking details of the discussions the promoters had had with the Auckland Council to the media.
“We had hoped to conduct our city council discussions privately until the point at which the matter was democratically decided in open council session. That is the proper way to do business.
“Mr Bhatnagar states that Auckland was invited to underwrite the event. That was one of the options we offered. Not surprisingly, given that Mr Bhatnagar’s Council have been willing to underwrite events in the past — including, we understand, a $2 million-plus underwrite of the upcoming stage production of My Fair Lady.
“What Mr Bhatnagar fails to mention is that they were also given an option to sponsor the event, with no underwrite, via a fixed payment with no risk in exchange for itemised benefits and a schedule of returns on investment supported by a business case commissioned from experts.”
“However, due to this unprofessional and disreputable leak of confidential information via the blog of an Auckland City Councillor, I will confirm that our venue decision was finalised several days ago and will be announced at a press conference early next week.
“We are satisfied that we have been able to identify the best city and venue to stage New Zealand’s Fight of the Century.”
David Higgins
Director
Duco Events
Promoter – Tua vs Cameron
Fighters shape up … so does the big fight
The promoters of the “Fight of the Century” have rejected suggestions on the front page of today’s New Zealand Herald that the big fight “doesn’t shape up”.
Promoter David Higgins of Duco Events said he found it dismaying and unprofessional that an Auckland City Councillor, Aaron Bhatnagar, had attempted to trash an event that leading commentators are calling the top New Zealand sports event of 2009.
Mr Higgins said that “although Aaron Bhatnagar may be the Chair of Auckland City Council’s Development Committee, his comments today merely underline the fact that he knows nothing at all about event promotion.
“Mr Bhatnagar brought up the recent David Beckham debacle in Auckland,” said Mr Higgins. “It was poor judgment by his council, which invested in the Beckham match, to imagine it could be successful. It displays even poorer judgement to see Tua vs Cameron as anything like the Beckham event.
“Tua vs Cameron is being organised by private sector experts with an impressive track record of success in event promotion. We believe the first step to staging a successful event is judgement. Backing events is about picking winners. It was obvious to us from early on that the Beckham event was unlikely to succeed. We wouldn’t have promoted it. David Tua vs Shane Cameron, on the other hand, is shaping up as New Zealand’s most notable sporting event of 2009.”
Mr Higgins said that his company had been undertaking a ‘due diligence’ of several potential locations and venues for Tua vs Cameron. The promoters were determined to undertake a rigorous research of the costs and benefits of each city and venue option before making a decision. He stated that whether or not a local city council supports the event was just one of many variables to be assessed.
“I should put it on record, notwithstanding Councillor Bhatnagar’s outburst, that Auckland City has offered us contra support and we see the Vector Arena as an attractive venue. So is Trusts Stadium in Waitakere -- and Waitakere have hosted very successful boxing events in recent times, most notably Dean Lonergan’s Fights for Life.
“Further south, Wellington’s TSB Arena is another good indoor venue and Wellington have let us know formally that they are excited by the event and believe Tua vs Cameron will be ‘ hugely successful’. Because Wellington’s track record as an events Mecca is widely respected, we appreciate the confidence they have expressed.
“Our reason for seeking investment in the event is that it will deliver substantial economic benefits to the host city and local businesses potentially worth several million dollars. It’s extraordinary that Mr Bhatnagar, as Chair of Auckland’s Development Committee, cannot see that: --
• The catering bill alone is likely to be worth more than one million dollars to local suppliers
• Dean Lonergan, who is managing our corporate sales, has a long waiting list of CEO’s and ‘high net worth individuals’ willing to pay more than $10,000 for ring-side tables
• The city that stages this event will be filled with spenders for at least the weekend of the fight and people from all walks of life will have the opportunity to experience a ‘once in a lifetime live event’
• Add popular build-up events, a public weigh-in, hotel room nights, restaurant and bar expenditure – and it’s easy to see that the bout will inject many millions of dollars into the host city’s economy during a recession.
Mr Higgins also condemned Aaron Bhatnagar’s action in leaking details of the discussions the promoters had had with the Auckland Council to the media.
“We had hoped to conduct our city council discussions privately until the point at which the matter was democratically decided in open council session. That is the proper way to do business.
“Mr Bhatnagar states that Auckland was invited to underwrite the event. That was one of the options we offered. Not surprisingly, given that Mr Bhatnagar’s Council have been willing to underwrite events in the past — including, we understand, a $2 million-plus underwrite of the upcoming stage production of My Fair Lady.
“What Mr Bhatnagar fails to mention is that they were also given an option to sponsor the event, with no underwrite, via a fixed payment with no risk in exchange for itemised benefits and a schedule of returns on investment supported by a business case commissioned from experts.”
“However, due to this unprofessional and disreputable leak of confidential information via the blog of an Auckland City Councillor, I will confirm that our venue decision was finalised several days ago and will be announced at a press conference early next week.
“We are satisfied that we have been able to identify the best city and venue to stage New Zealand’s Fight of the Century.”
David Higgins
Director
Duco Events
Promoter – Tua vs Cameron
Lebanon Set the Pace in South Africa
Round Five of the 2008/09 A1GP World Cup of Motorsport season got underway in Gauteng, South Africa this afternoon with A1 Team France setting the early pace in the rookie session before A1 Team Lebanon’s Daniel Morad posted a 1-minute 30.816-seconds lap to end the day quickest overall in the hot Kyalami sunshine.
Sixteen-years after his father won in Kyalami, Nicolas Prost was the first to turn a wheel kicking off the weekend’s action in Gauteng, South Africa. The 27-year-old was the first to go faster than the lap record set by Mauro Baldi in a Ferrari 3338 SP in 1998 and over 3-seconds quicker than the time, 1m 36.390s, set by Nigel Mansell in an ‘old’ Formula 1 car in 1993.
The second car out on track was A1 Team Germany getting its first running of the season with Michael Ammermüller behind the wheel, but it was Prost who ended the rookie session quickest with a time of 1m 33.149s: “
“The track is very nice,” said Prost. “It’s pretty hilly and it’s a bit old – style, which is nice, with quick corners. It’s going to be tough with a lot of competition here, but in the rookie session the car was very good. We made a few bad changes let’s say, and I was not that good, but I’m sure it will be ok tomorrow.”
Reigning champion Switzerland was first out on track in the final practice of the day, but it was Lebanon’s Daniel Morad who emerged quickest, recording a 1m 30.816s, 0.496-seconds faster than anyone else in the final minutes of the session.
“We seemed to get on the pace pretty quickly and it was fine,” said Morad. “We kind of put a lot of thought into this one, just to see how quick we can get off the start and it was good. The thing I could really feel in the car was that the tyres are a lot better. I think when we were running in Malaysia the track felt really greasy and the tyres weren’t giving that much grip in the hot conditions, but in the cooler conditions it seems to be quite good.”
Commenting on what preparation he had done before arriving in South Africa he continued: “Not much! Well actually, I have been playing on my own simulator. I built a simulator up at home but it’s not that accurate because I went 10-seconds slower here. I knew the direction of the track though and I knew it was going to be challenging because of the elevation. I have to say that I really like this circuit. It reminds me of one back home in Canada. The track is also an old Formula 1 circuit like this, so a lot of the features are the same and I really like it.”
Local driver Adrian Zaugg ended the day sixth with a time of 1m 31.881: “I went out at first, and just felt how the car was, and checked some things as I do usually. Once I got a good feel for the car I just improved some things. At the end I was just kind of building up once things moved in the direction I wanted, so I started to push a bit more to see what lap times I could do.
“It’s a great circuit for me,” he continued. “It’s one of the best circuits I have ever raced on so far. We have blind corners here - fast sweeping corners and then slow corners. In fact they change with each and every lap because everyone was short cutting and throwing gravel, so each lap was quite different. It was great fun driving on this circuit.”
On moving from Durban to Gauteng for Season Four he said: “I actually enjoyed Durban a lot. There were obviously some unpleasant memories with the last race I had there, but I have always liked street circuits. But this circuit I would say is even more challenging than Durban was. Even though there are no walls here, I think it’s difficult and is an old school circuit with plenty of run-off. It’s a real proper circuit.”
Five cars did not make it onto the Kyalami track for these two sessions due to a technical issue beyond the teams’ control. With Kyalami sitting 2000-feet above sea level, A1GP has had to introduce new parts to the cars’ fuel systems to combat the high altitude. Unfortunately, the additional parts were not available to be fitted in time to these five cars. Equivalent running time will be allocated to these teams tomorrow morning to maintain the level playing field.
A1 Team Pakistan will not be competing in Kyalami. The team’s entry to Season Four has been delayed so the first time its seat holder, Adam Khan, was able to drive its new Powered by Ferrari car was this week at a test at South Africa’s Phakisa Freeway Circuit in Welkom. The team was happy with the test, but Khan will now concentrate on preparing for the remainder of Season Four, Season Five and his role with the ING Renault F1 team.
Also missing is A1 Team Korea which is being restructured. However the team has recently announced a new driver – 2008 Macau Grand Prix winner Kyoung-Woo Lee – who is in Kyalami to see the series at close quarters. Once all the various parts of this restructuring are in place A1GP looks forward to welcoming the team back on track.
Some teams loved it and some teams hated it but the PowerBoost ‘joker’ has been reinstated for Saturday qualifying. The functionality of the new A1GP Powered by Ferrari car allows for the PowerBoost button to be available for an entire lap of Qualifying, and teams will be allowed to use it for one of their four flying laps. The PowerBoost button gives an extra 60bhp on application, so the ability to use it throughout a lap is likely to make a significant difference to the car’s capability.
As in Taupo, the Sprint race in South Africa will have a standing and not a rolling start after a great deal of consideration was given to the change implemented in New Zealand. Both these changes will remain a feature for the remainder of Season Four.
Sixteen-years after his father won in Kyalami, Nicolas Prost was the first to turn a wheel kicking off the weekend’s action in Gauteng, South Africa. The 27-year-old was the first to go faster than the lap record set by Mauro Baldi in a Ferrari 3338 SP in 1998 and over 3-seconds quicker than the time, 1m 36.390s, set by Nigel Mansell in an ‘old’ Formula 1 car in 1993.
The second car out on track was A1 Team Germany getting its first running of the season with Michael Ammermüller behind the wheel, but it was Prost who ended the rookie session quickest with a time of 1m 33.149s: “
“The track is very nice,” said Prost. “It’s pretty hilly and it’s a bit old – style, which is nice, with quick corners. It’s going to be tough with a lot of competition here, but in the rookie session the car was very good. We made a few bad changes let’s say, and I was not that good, but I’m sure it will be ok tomorrow.”
Reigning champion Switzerland was first out on track in the final practice of the day, but it was Lebanon’s Daniel Morad who emerged quickest, recording a 1m 30.816s, 0.496-seconds faster than anyone else in the final minutes of the session.
“We seemed to get on the pace pretty quickly and it was fine,” said Morad. “We kind of put a lot of thought into this one, just to see how quick we can get off the start and it was good. The thing I could really feel in the car was that the tyres are a lot better. I think when we were running in Malaysia the track felt really greasy and the tyres weren’t giving that much grip in the hot conditions, but in the cooler conditions it seems to be quite good.”
Commenting on what preparation he had done before arriving in South Africa he continued: “Not much! Well actually, I have been playing on my own simulator. I built a simulator up at home but it’s not that accurate because I went 10-seconds slower here. I knew the direction of the track though and I knew it was going to be challenging because of the elevation. I have to say that I really like this circuit. It reminds me of one back home in Canada. The track is also an old Formula 1 circuit like this, so a lot of the features are the same and I really like it.”
Local driver Adrian Zaugg ended the day sixth with a time of 1m 31.881: “I went out at first, and just felt how the car was, and checked some things as I do usually. Once I got a good feel for the car I just improved some things. At the end I was just kind of building up once things moved in the direction I wanted, so I started to push a bit more to see what lap times I could do.
“It’s a great circuit for me,” he continued. “It’s one of the best circuits I have ever raced on so far. We have blind corners here - fast sweeping corners and then slow corners. In fact they change with each and every lap because everyone was short cutting and throwing gravel, so each lap was quite different. It was great fun driving on this circuit.”
On moving from Durban to Gauteng for Season Four he said: “I actually enjoyed Durban a lot. There were obviously some unpleasant memories with the last race I had there, but I have always liked street circuits. But this circuit I would say is even more challenging than Durban was. Even though there are no walls here, I think it’s difficult and is an old school circuit with plenty of run-off. It’s a real proper circuit.”
Five cars did not make it onto the Kyalami track for these two sessions due to a technical issue beyond the teams’ control. With Kyalami sitting 2000-feet above sea level, A1GP has had to introduce new parts to the cars’ fuel systems to combat the high altitude. Unfortunately, the additional parts were not available to be fitted in time to these five cars. Equivalent running time will be allocated to these teams tomorrow morning to maintain the level playing field.
A1 Team Pakistan will not be competing in Kyalami. The team’s entry to Season Four has been delayed so the first time its seat holder, Adam Khan, was able to drive its new Powered by Ferrari car was this week at a test at South Africa’s Phakisa Freeway Circuit in Welkom. The team was happy with the test, but Khan will now concentrate on preparing for the remainder of Season Four, Season Five and his role with the ING Renault F1 team.
Also missing is A1 Team Korea which is being restructured. However the team has recently announced a new driver – 2008 Macau Grand Prix winner Kyoung-Woo Lee – who is in Kyalami to see the series at close quarters. Once all the various parts of this restructuring are in place A1GP looks forward to welcoming the team back on track.
Some teams loved it and some teams hated it but the PowerBoost ‘joker’ has been reinstated for Saturday qualifying. The functionality of the new A1GP Powered by Ferrari car allows for the PowerBoost button to be available for an entire lap of Qualifying, and teams will be allowed to use it for one of their four flying laps. The PowerBoost button gives an extra 60bhp on application, so the ability to use it throughout a lap is likely to make a significant difference to the car’s capability.
As in Taupo, the Sprint race in South Africa will have a standing and not a rolling start after a great deal of consideration was given to the change implemented in New Zealand. Both these changes will remain a feature for the remainder of Season Four.
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