Trans Tasman walking test match team announced

New Zealand team to the Trans Tasman race walking test match.

Full teams have been selected to represent New Zealand at the Trans Tasman walking test match against Australia in Hobart Tasmania on 13 February.

Quentin Rew of Hastings, the national 10km, 20km and 50km walking champion, heads the men’s team. He is joined by Eric Kemsley of New Plymouth, Mike Parker of North Shore and Scott Nelson of Tauranga.

Nelson has been named by the selectors but is subject to final confirmation by the selectors. Parker was selected for the 1980 Moscow Olympic Games and Nelson has returned to the sport after competing at the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games and winning the bronze medal in the 30km walk at the 1994 Victoria Commonwealth Games. He also competed at the 1993, 1995 and 1997 world championships.

Kate Newitt of Christchurch, the national 3000m track walk and W19 10km walking champion and New Zealand W19 5000m and 10,000m record holder heads the women’s team. Also selected are Roseanne Robinson of Dunedin, Alana Barber of Auckland and Kelly Mabbett of Hamilton. Robinson is the New Zealand W19 3000m track walk and W19 5km walk champion. Barber is the national 10km and 50km road walking champion.