Miazga’s support big part of success

ONE of Coast buster Sam Clark’s secret weapons in his success on Saturday was having threetime open women’s champion Emily Miazga in his support crew.

Miazga, who boasts an impressive record in Longest Day competition won the women’s title in 2006, 2008 and 2009, and was placed third three times (2004, 2005 and 2011), with a fourth place in 2010, played a major role in motivating Clark and removing any selfdoubt he had in his ability, after fighting off his detractors who said his victory last year was somewhat hollow, considering threetime champion Braden Currie was not in the field.

Miazga said that Clark had sent her a message stating that he wasn’t going to race.

‘‘I told him ‘I think you’re crazy. You’re going to have to race. You have something you’ve got to prove here buddy and I believe in you. What can I do to help?’’

Now retired from the game, Miazga added that ‘‘what you do is give back and if I can help these young guys, then that makes me feel so good’’.

‘‘Somebody like Sam is a really neat person. He’s super humble and gracious, he’s quirky, he’s intelligent. He’s just so much fun to be around.’’

Miazga added that when Clark lost by a narrow margin to Currie two years ago, she went up to him and said ‘‘like what did you do, letting that get away?’’

‘‘Although he had a win last year, and this year he had a statement to make and I believe he did that. He executed beautifully. He was a joy to support, and a great friend to have spent the last couple of days with. I’m just so happy for him and I’m so proud of him and it could not of happened to a better person. He’s just such and awesome guy.’’