Strong lineup enjoys Tuhua memorial

The Taia Tuhua Memorial held in Kaikohe at the end of August attracted a strong muster of 18 teams from around the Far North.

Event spokeswoman Eileen Strongman noted the mixed triples tournament on Saturday, August 31, was sponsored by the Tuhua whanau and Shaun Richards who provided breakfast and a superb luncheon for the players.

“The full array of prizes for the eight top teams also showed the generosity and aroha given by the whanau, and the stories that were shared was so humbling, especially the many fond memories of what a loving and sporting person Taia was.

On behalf of organisers, Strongman congratulated all the top placegetters in the event:

John Lawson, Kera Parata, Tom Black (Kaikohe) 1; Gerry and Karen Morunga, Cynthia Stephens (Kaikohe) 2; Dave and Kate Haynes, Brendon Johnson (composite) 3; Tupu and Gabriella Campbell, Donny Holmes (composite) 4; Sue and Mac Solomon with Patrick Higginbottom (composite) 5; Rob and Faye Norman, Dee Scott (Waitangi) 6; Jeanette Smith, Bruce Shepherd, Sonya Marsh (composite) 7; Harold, Ben Yukich and A Wendy (composite) 8.

As well, the Spider and First Toucher went to Kate Haynes (Okaihau) while the outstanding player of the day award — as chosen by the competing teams’ skips — was presented to the young Julius Cassidy (Opononi).

Special mention was also made of the match committee, president Dion working behind the bar, and Tom and his helpers for preparing the greens.