Celebrations for our Rio Olympians
Published on 17 September 2016
17 September 2016
Mayor Annette Main invites our families and young people to meet two of Whanganui’s current Olympians, with several opportunities on Saturday, October 1, to catch up with our sporting stars.
Rio rowing silver medallist Rebecca Scown will be joined by fellow rower Chris Harris for a range of activities in the central city.
“It’s a wonderful opportunity for our community to meet our great sporting ambassadors who performed so well at Rio,” Mayor Main said.
“You’ll be able to have a chat, get a selfie and even touch a real Olympic medal. Rebecca and Chris are great role models and what better way to show them how proud they made us in Rio than to turn out in force and enjoy this day with them.
“In the lead-up to the Rio Olympics Whanganui was named as New Zealand’s top breeding ground for Olympic medallists and of course it also attracts top athletes to live and train here. We are continuing that legacy and hope to inspire our new generation of Olympic athletes and medallists by giving them a chance to meet our current stars.”
The athletes will be out and about from late morning on Saturday, October 1, starting with an informal walkabout at the River Traders Market; then erg competitions, children’s activities and music at Majestic Square; and special guest appearances at Cooks Gardens during the Heartland Rugby match between Steelform Wanganui and Thames Valley.
Due to other commitments, 2016 Olympians Lucy Oliver (athletics) and Kerri Gowler (rowing) are unable to attend but Olympic support staff and former Olympians from Whanganui will also be part of the celebrations.
There will be plenty of opportunities to meet our sporting superstars as they move around the riverfront and central city area.
The programme for Saturday, October 1, is:
11.30am – 12 noon: Walkabout at the River Traders Market
12 noon: Join the Walking Bus from the Market up to Majestic Square
12.15pm – 1.00pm: Activities at Majestic Square and your chance to meet the Olympians
2.15pm: Official recognition of the Olympians before the Steelform Wanganui vs Thames Valley kick-off
Normal gate fees will apply for entry to Cooks Gardens during the rugby match:
Children (13 and under): free
Secondary students and Gold Card holders: $5
Adults: $10
2 adults and 2 children (13 and under): $15
2 adults and 2 students: $25
The event has been organised by the Whanganui District Council, Sport Whanganui, Mainstreet Whanganui, Wanganui Events Trust, Wanganui Rugby Union and Wanganui Rowing Association, with support from NZME, Wanganui Chronicle and The Hits.