For photos click here .........................for more photos taken by Michelle Batchelor click here

Redmond Nicholson’s last end pressure ball that won him the BC2 title, the high quality BC3 final between Mandy Slade and Anthea Hurst and that wonderful shot of newcomer Julieanne Preston, which won her a bronze medal in the open class, were just a few of the highlights of the 12th Focus Cup Boccia tournament, held at South Auckland’s Allen Brewster Centre. (July 4th & 5th)

Congratulations must go to the Focus Mobility Rehab team for organising this important tournament on the Boccia calendar. This event over the years has helped kick start many sporting careers, and judging by the standard of play last weekend future champions will soon emerge.

BC1 player Gayle Russell has already hit the big time as she prepares for an August international tournament in Hong Kong. Once she has mastered the nuances of the game she will be a major asset, for the New Zealand side.

A little further down the track twelve year old Alex Dickson will be a gun player. He certainly impressed during the weekend with his smooth action and developing routine.

It’s great to see New Zealand Reps Maurice Toon and Mandy Slade coming into form, with Redmond Nicholson making a big statement with his gold medal performance.

Strong teams from Northland and Janet McVeagh Recreation added a lot of vibrancy to proceedings, which was most welcome.

The trophy winners from the weekend were Julieanne Preston (Focus on Commitment ---donated by Allways Mobility Services), Andrew Shea (Most improved player) and Alex Dickson (Best and Fairest)
A big thanks goes out to Margaret Moylen, for running the whole show, Harvey Brunt for keeping an eye on the statistics, John Wade who presented the medals and trophies, Trevor Freeman for keeping an eye on the games in progress as head referee, and to all hardworking referees throughout the tournament, especially Nessie Thomson who keeps on keeping on, at the “young at heart” age of eighty something.

Ross Flood
rflood@cpsociety.org.nz

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