Media release
28 January, 2016
Sir Colin Meads receives prestigious Hare Puke Leadership in Sport Award at Waikato Regional Sports Awards
Not only were the winners of the prestigious 2015 Brian Perry Regional Sports Awards announced on Thursday 28th January, 2016 at Claudelands Conference & Exhibition Centre in Hamilton but two very special iconic New Zealanders were also acknowledged for their contribution to Sport.
Sir Colin Meads, who currently resides in Te Kuiti, received the prestigious Hare Puke Leadership in Sport Award. This award is not necessarily awarded on an annual basis and is only presented to relevant, deserving participants. Sir Colin sits along the three other recipients of the award – Brian Perry in 2012, Alan Livingston in 2013 and Mark O’Callaghan in 2014. The Hare Puke Award for Leadership is awarded to a recipient who resides in the Waikato and will relate to a sport governed in the Waikato or at national level. The final decision on the recipient of this award is made by a judging panel, made up of the current and former Chief Executive Officers of Sport Waikato, Matthew Cooper, Murray Gutry and John Parker.
Sir Colin was described by Sport Waikato CEO Matthew Cooper, during his presentation as an individual who demonstrates leadership and has significant presence when he walks into any room or setting.
“Sir Colin is a remarkable leader in this region. He is largely acknowledged for using his fame for the benefit of others, rather than himself. Humility is a strong attribute of his” Cooper said.
Mr Kahu Coyle Puke, Hare Puke’s grandson, presented Sir Colin with the Toki Poutangata, the Maori trophy carved by Hare’s son, Wiremu.
Sir David Fagan was also acknowledged with a special presentation on the night for his contribution to shearing sports, after the announcement of his recent retirement. Cooper also acknowledged the humility of Sir David during his presentation.
Ends.
Gilly Alexander, Sport Waikato Community Sport Advisor – 07 858 5388 or 027 289 9807 or email gillya@sportwaikato.org.nz
Kayleigh Farquhar, Sport Waikato Sponsorship and Communications Manager - 07 858 5388 or 021 240 8157 or email kayleighf@sportwaikato.org.nz
For a full list of finalists please visit http://www.sportwaikato.org.nz/news/finalists-announced-for-2015-brian-perry-waikato-r.aspx