Chris Amon honoured at New Zealand Grand Prix

Each car contesting the New Zealand Grand Prix at Manfeild at the weekend carried a special tribute to Manawatu and Kiwi motorsport legend Chris Amon.

They had a sticker on the inside of their spoiler to honour Amon, who died in August.

Much of the weekend was dedicated to Amon’s memory, including new signage at the track to promote its new name – Circuit Chris Amon – and a tribute dinner on Sunday night.

Amon won the grand prix in 1968 and 1969.

Coach Whitelock

The Palmerston North Girls’ High school first XI hockey team have added a big name to their coaching staff this year.

Former Black Sticks captain Kayla Whitelock, who retired last year after playing 255 tests for New Zealand, is the new assistant coach.

She will help her sister Verity Sharland, who coached the team last year.

Ironmen and women

As usual, Manawatu has a fair old swag of multisport athletes heading to this year’s Taupo Ironman next month.

There are 21 entrants from across the region of all ages and walks of life, who will be doing the 3.8km swim, 180km bike and 42.2km run on March 4.

Among those going are Hockey Manawatu operations manager Kevin Nicholson, Palmerston North management worker Vanessa Sidney-richmond and experienced triathlete Mike Robinson.

He is aiming to qualify for the prestigious and tough world championships at Kona, Hawaii, in October.