NZ Touch Nationals good news for Petone
By Chrys Ayley
Petone Recreation Grounds will come alive on February 28 as hundreds of touch rugby players gather to compete in a week long series of competitions. The sport is action packed and fast says Total Touch Manager Peter McDonald, who is expecting 500-1,000 spectators at the competitions held over the weekend. The nationals are spread around the country and events are sometimes held at Fraser Park, he said, but this year it was decided to hold the competition at Petone Recreation Grounds. ?It?s one of the best grounds in Wellington ? it drains well and is just a nice ground to play on,? he said. The park is nice and compact which means spectators will be able to see everything that?s going on. Teams from as far afield as Southland and Auckland will be playing and that?s good for business in Petone, he said. ?Business gets a good boost.? Twenty masters teams have signed up plus 37 youth and open teams. The Jackson Street Fiesta is planned for March 7, the final day of play, so people should be able to combine time at the games and then take in the action at the Fiesta. Mr McDonald says it is a good opportunity to see some up and coming potential ?super stars?, many of whom progress to league. ?We don?t like losing players, but....? Entry is free and Mr McDonald encourages all residents to have a look, sit in the stand or on the bank and bring a picnic. Local schools will not be competing in their regular Touch competition during the nationals but schools are encouraged to watch. ?Touch is actually the highest team participation sport in New Zealand and a lot is played socially,? he said. Mixed, that?s teams of men and women, is strong in New Zealand and is a sport families can enjoy. ?It?s a fast game to watch, it?s simple and it?s enjoyable.? The masters will be played from February 28 to March 2 and will be followed by youth and open competitions from March 4 to 7th.
