While Anthony and Linda were here, we went to the athletics competition between St.Pats, Joe’s new college, St.Pats, Silverstream, Rongotai College, and Wellington College.
The McEvedy Shield has a long history, and was originally donated by the interesting man. He was a doctor,from Wellington,trained at Guy’s Hospital, played rugby for England it is reported, though I have only found reference to him playing for an Anglo-Welsh team against Australia and New Zealand. A precursor of the Lions.
Anyway, the shield is contested annually. and Wellington College generally win, no surprise as they are twice the size of St. Pats, who are bigger than Silverstream and same size as Rongotai.
This year St Pats were the holders.
It is a big day out and the whole school attends. The noise and songs and chants from the stands were great. They had been practicing during school time. The whole atmosphere was great.
Prior to the meeting I had to drop Joe and some mates at the train station to watch the haka competition between the schools!
We went to watch for a while and of course Anthony loved it-so much so he has his stop-watch working for the 400m, 800m and 1500m races, and passing judgement on the running styles of the competitors.
The whole thing took you back to your own school days-though better I think. Joe seemed to love the day and was a great way for the new boys to feel associated with their new school.
Anyway, Wellington College won, 184-176 against St. Pats, with the other 2 way behind.
Looking forward to next year already!
