The KKK Kricket Journey

I first represented New Zealand 38 years ago, and still remember the absolute thrill and excitement hearing my name read out. That same adrenalin rush was still there when I heard I could once again represent New Zealand, and for the first time in blind cricket. Being part of a team again, developing my cricket skills to a higher level over the next 4 months and giving those Australians a run for their money gives me great motivation to achieve.

I have been interested in all types of sporting activities since my late teens, and first represented New Zealand at the 1980 Paralympic games in Holland winning a gold medal in the Pentathlon. After that first success I decided I wanted more and have competed nationally and internationally ever since then while bringing up a family at the same time.

I have travelled to many different countries with my sports over the years and met some amazing people. I have represented New Zealand in track and field, swimming, marathon running, tandem cycling, goalball and can now add blind cricket to my list. Over the last 5 years or so, I have chosen to step back from competing, choosing to encourage others to get out and have a go.

This unexpected opportunity has made me realise how proud I am to be a kiwi and to pull on that black shirt once again.

Blind sports in New Zealand is going through an exciting time with the introduction of some new sports such as touch rugby and soccer. A have a go day was held inb Wellington 2 months ago and I thought it would be great to try it out. Maybe I forgot I wasn’t 21 again and I unfortunately broke my arm when I slipped and fell trying to get past someone, so maybe need to leave the touch rugby and soccer up to the young ones.