Swimmer and terror survivor humbled
Swimmer Sophie Pascoe, New Zealand’s most decorated Paralympian, has received her damehood at a service in her home city of Christchurch, just a few kilometres where she first began training as an 8-year-old.
Pascoe has represented her country at four summer Paralympic Games, winning 11 gold medals, seven silver and a bronze. Her impressive collection was bolstered by being made a dame during a ceremony hosted by the Governor-General, Dame Cindy Kiro, and Dr Richard Davies yesterday morning.
Mosque attack survivor Farid Ahmed was also recognised, made a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit in recognition of his services to interfaith communities.
After surviving the March 15, 2019 attacks, which claimed the life of his wife Husna, Ahmed has spoken nationally and internationally about the importance of love and forgiveness.
Pascoe, 29, is a seven-time
Halberg Para Athlete/Team of the Year winner and has been competing in the pool for more than two decades. She has also represented New Zealand at the Commonwealth Games, and rose to prominence while training at the QEII Swim Club.
When first told of her damehood at the end of last year, Pascoe said she felt hugely honoured but a little guilty. ‘‘I felt like there’s so many more other great Kiwis doing more amazing stuff than myself,’’ she said.
She was due to receive her honour in July, but was forced to isolate at home with Covid-19.
After losing his wife and friends in the mosque shooting, Ahmed has spoken out to spread a message of peace.
He said he was humbled by the award and gave credit to all New Zealanders.
‘‘What I did was not for any recognition or acknowledgement, I did it because I believe my duty is to do what good I can.’’
For Ahmed, the ceremony was an opportunity to reflect on the past and how much support he has had from the public since the March 15 attack.
‘‘This crisis (March 15) was handled by all of us. I think this award is for all New Zealanders not just for me, so I will take it on behalf,’’ he said.
He was conferred with the honour late last year when the Queen was still alive, and said yesterday: ‘‘She is not with us today, I feel sad about that. I acknowledge her support for us.’’