As New Zealand’s most chosen home builder we are pleased to continue our association with New Zealanders striving for great things in sport, from grassroots local support of individuals, teams, and clubs, to Olympic athletes and our biggest sporting codes.
We are especially proud of supporting athletes at the top of their game in sports that do not receive the reach or exposure we believe they deserve. Below are four examples of athletes pushing the boundaries to try and reach their Olympic dream:
Dan Wilcox and Paul Snow-Hansen – 470 Sailing. This pair were fierce rivals growing up competing against each other, before deciding to team up to go after their Olympic dream. Paul raced at the London 2012 Olympics to fifth place, but is hungry for the top step of the podium. Together Dan and Paul decided to focus full time on sailing in 2013 which resulted in immediate improvements. They have continued to improve and in 2016 the pair raced to the silver medal at the World Championships to secure their place at the Rio Olympics. Giving them great confidence leading into the games!
Tracey Lambrechs – Olympic Weightlifter. Controversially left off the 2012 Olympic team in a tight selection call, Tracey funnelled her energy towards the 2014 Commonwealth Games and achieved the bronze medal, again she awaits the final weightlifting team selection call and is hoping to be on the other side of a tight decision this time.
Sarah Fuller - Recurve Bow Archery. Sarah is the New Zealand champion, and continues to balance some work around her training and competing. Sarah took up the sport relatively recently after watching her father shoot when she was young. Competing in World Cups throughout May, Sarah is hoping for the selection word from NZOC.
Fiona Southorn – Para-cyclist. Has been to three Olympic games, Where she showed continued improvement to build up to achieving the bronze medal in London 2012. Fiona was looking to improve on this in 2016, but unfortunately was left off the team for Rio, announced at the start of May.
Their stories are inspiring and we encourage you to keep up with their journeys and support their events. The challenge of making it to an Olympic Games is a momentous feat and likely a dream come true for those who get the chance, while those who don’t quite reach it can still be proud of their efforts. All these athletes are inspiring in their dedication to push the boundaries and achieve great results. They are all representing NZ on the world stage this year, and we wish them all the best for their athletic endeavours.