Raptors take out regional airport gong

The Raptors Tag Club representatives were floored when the club’s name was read out at the Wellington Airport Regional Community Awards last week.

The Raptors won the sport and leisure award and club secretary Barbara Edmonds said it took them all by surprise.

‘‘There’s no way we expected to win,’’ she said.

‘‘It was humbling. We feel super privileged, especially when you see these other volunteers and amazing groups also up for the award.

‘‘We didn’t feel worthy. I’m normally a prepared person, but I was shocked. I think my speech was one of the worst I’ve ever delivered.’’

Edmonds said the award was a result of the hours the Raptors’ volunteers had put into the club.

There were more than 150 members, backed by dedicated parents and local businesses, that made everything work, she said.

When they began the club, there was no gear and only secondhand uniforms. A fledgling committee was backed by a number of local businesses.

The Raptors won the top prize at the Porirua section of the awards in June.