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Nineteen athletes from Special Olympics Hibiscus Coast Rodney will represent the region at the 2025 Special Olympics National Summer Games in Christchurch this December.
The team will join more than 1300 athletes from across New Zealand for five days of inclusive sport, camaraderie, and competition. The local group includes tenpin bowlers, swimmers, an equestrian, and support staff, 30 people in total.
Athletes attending in the ten-pin bowling team are Jessica Woomack, Stephen Just, Grace Bellette-Just, Anj Gilmore, Matthew Parker, Max Bennett, Connor Morton, Vanessa Palmer, Chevelle Simonsen, Hamish Nadan, Torben Noah and Zane Panui-Leth.
All have been training hard and many have previous competition experience at regional or national level. The team has been actively fundraising to cover costs for uniforms, accommodation, travel, and registration. Events have included raffles, chocolate sales, a fashion parade, and an art exhibition at Estuary Arts Centre. Upcoming fundraisers include a pub quiz at Warkworth RSA on August 23 and a sausage sizzle at Bunnings in November. Donations are also welcome via: givealittle.co.nz/cause/we-are-going-to-the-special-olympic-nationals
Meet the team
Jessica Woomack is a founding member originally participating in aquatics and equestrian and competing in two Nationals before switching to tenpin bowling. Stephen Just and Grace Bellette-Just are experienced bowlers, both with previous National Games experience. Stephen is one of the best bowlers in the club, while Matthew Parker holds the club’s highest average score. He is a past national medallist, holding gold, silver and bronze medals. Anj Gilmore is a regular competitor known for her encouraging attitude and steady improvement, as well as her love of rugby. Max Bennett, a newer member, is progressing quickly and enjoys the competitive aspect of bowling. Connor Morton, originally a basketball player, has earned regional medals since switching to bowling. Torben Noah is a keen walker and has competed in two previous Nationals, winning numerous medals.
Hamish Nadan moved from table tennis to bowling and competed in the 2022 Nationals, winning a number of medals. He also enjoys horse riding and Kapa Haka, competing at national level. Zane began as a swimmer before switching to tenpin bowling. He brings strong game-day performance and competed at national level in 2022. Chevelle, a former skier and soccer player continues to grow her skills in bowling, as well as having a passion for horses and animals. Vanessa Palmer, is excited for her first national competition. She has been bowling for four years as well as hip hop dancing, line dancing and swimming.
The team says they’re proud to represent the Hibiscus Coast and grateful for community support. Sponsorship, donations or support at upcoming events are welcomed.
