Maister to provide inside running on Olympics
While helping keep the torch burning for Nelson’s Special Olympians, gold medallist Barry Maister wants people to know that the Olympic movement is still a winner.
Invited to speak by Nelson Host Lions Club next month, Maister’s presentation ‘The Olympic Dream - Myth or Reality?’ has been promoted as an insider’s look behind the rings, from someone who has seen the Olympic dream from more angles than most.
After winning an Olympic gold with the NZ men’s hockey team in Montreal 1976, Maister has attended 18 Olympic Games as an athlete and through his work with six different committees under the International Olympic Committee banner.
He is grateful for the opportunities that have come his way, simply by picking up a hockey stick as a young boy.
‘‘It’s a life-changing thing - it’s opened up doors, it’s a memory that no one can ever take off you and something that’s very special in my life.’’
Maister hoped to dispell some of the myths that people have about the IOC and the work that it does.
‘‘Many people think that the Games is what the Olympic movement is all about and while that is a key part, there is also a hell of a lot of other work that goes on every day of the year and I want to share some of those stories.’’
Maister said despite anxieties expressed in relation to the cost of hosting the games, the IOC was actively looking at ways to reduce costs and prevent white elephants in the future.
Maister predicted the upcoming decision between Los Angeles and Paris for the 2024 games would see the unsuccessful city awarded the 2028 games, which would then allow the IOC to review the process of bidding cities.
‘‘I think the future of the games is strong - it’s still the beacon of many aspiring sportskids and a source of inspiration to many people around the world - but it has to evolve.’’
Also speaking on the night is 26-year-old Hamish Hurst, a young Global Messenger for Special Olympics Nelson.
The former Garin College student trains with Special Olympic groups for golf, power lifting, basketball and swimming and has represented the region in all of these events.
All proceeds from the evening will go towards Special Olympics New Zealand.
Maister said he looked forward to helping athletes achieve their goals. ‘‘Everyone can excel to different levels – they can and they do – their achievements are incredible in some cases and well worth being supported.’’
Barry Maister will be speaking at Old St. John’s Church, Hardy St. Nelson on Tuesday May 9, starting at 7.30 pm.
Tickets are available from the Theatre Royal and Ticket Direct $12 (service fees apply).
Door sales $15.