Meg was one of 1,200 athletes and hundreds more volunteers, coaches and support staff who attended the National Summer Special Olympics, in Otautahi Christchurch late last year. Leading up to the December event she had been training every Saturday in Wellington with her coach Tim Barrie, practicing her mini javelin throw.
“The javelin is made of plastic and has a snub-nosed pointed end. The aim is to throw it so that the head is down. It takes a lot of practice to get it right”,says Meg.
“The Games were very exciting. We travelled to Christchurch and stayed at Christchurch University. With all the students away for the Christmas Break it was the perfect place to stay. Three female coaches boarded with us. Every day we were provided with our breakfast, a packed picnic lunch, and dinner.
We were bused to the Athletic Stadium, Nga Puna Wai, at Haswell where our events took place. I was entered in four competitions, the mini javelin throw, the 100metre relay, a 60metre run and 100metre run.
I won Gold in Mini Javelin, a Silver in the 60m run, a 5th ribbon for the 100m, and a Gold in a relay as part of a team of four with Josh from Wairarapa, Hamish from Manawatu and Connell and I.
I won Gold in Mini Javelin, a Silver in the 60m run, a 5th ribbon for the 100m, and a Gold in a relay as part of a team of four with Josh from Wairarapa, Hamish from Manawatu and Connell and I.
One of the special aspects of the games is that all the competitors are checked to see how healthy we are. Our eyes were checked, our teeth inspected, our hearing tested, and feet evaluated. Specialists provide their time voluntarily.
The Opening and Closing ceremonies were magic.
My Aunt even came from Australia to watch me along with my sister and mum.
It was a really special time. I carry my medals with me wherever I go.”
