Turning luck around

Who better to speak on overcoming adversity than Tony Christiansen, who lost both his legs in a horrific railway accident aged nine?

Mr Christiansen has been announced as the guest speaker for the 2009 Central Energy Trust Sportsperson of the Year awards.

The theme of the awards, which will be held on Friday November 13, will be ‘Unlucky Sporting Moments’.

Sport Manawatu’s commercial manager, Troy Thurston says, “Tony is the perfect fit for these awards. Of course the theme is just a play on Friday the 13th, we are more interested in how athletes overcome adversity (or bad luck) to reach amazing success, and this is what Tony represents.”

“After losing both his legs Tony has gone on to become a qualified lifeguard; Paralympic gold medallist, black belt in Tae Kwon Do, race car champion, qualified pilot and he’s climbed Mt Kilimanjaro – Africa’s highest mountain,” says Mr Thurston.

The awards which have been run by Sport Manawatu for the last 21 years aim to recognise the achievements of local Manawatu athletes, coaches and officials.

Last year’s winner was international cyclist Jesse Sergent who, among other achievements, won a bronze medal in the team pursuit at the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

The awards function will be held at the Awapuni Function Centre in Palmerston North. Tickets include a three course dinner and entertainment and are $60 for an individual or $400 for a table of eight.

For more information or to purchase tickets contact Sport Manawatu on (06) 357 5349 or visit sportmanawatu.org.nz.