Christchurch City Council Media Release 26 November 2008

Christchurch Crushers – a mixed bag of strength

The Christchurch Crushers have a strong mix for their Top Town team.

Members of the Christchurch Top Town team are bringing varied backgrounds and training that will hope to defeat rival teams Gore and Otorohanga in the first heat tomorrow, Thursday 27.

The Christchurch Crushers have been training in and out of the pool to gear themselves up for their big day tomorrow, however team member and local builder James Lancaster says he thinks it will be an open slather no matter how hard you have prepared.

“It’s not going to be a matter of what sporting background you have, all it’s going to come down to on the day is technique,” says James.

“From what we’ve heard about the obstacles, it’s going to be an open-field for all.”

Towns from all over New Zealand including Ashburton have been working hard at getting together great talent for their teams meaning some serious competition will be seen at Jellie Park over the coming week.

Ashburton has secured ex Crusaders Clark McLeod and TV personality Simon Barnett, competing on Monday December 1, and word has it that Rugby legend Geoff Crawford is part of the Whangarei team scheduled to compete on Saturday’s Heat 3.

The Christchurch Crushers have also recruited a local fire fighter, Paul Mitchell, to bring strength and experience in hot situations but thankfully, their will be a lot of water involved.

Team Manager and member Aron Anderson says the Crushers hope to see a lot of red and black in the crowd from local supporters – the official team colours.

“We’re all really excited about competing on Thursday and having a lot of fun. We’ve formed a very tight bond and hope to make it into the semis.”

Fifteen teams from across New Zealand will arrive in Christchurch tonight and will stay together at the Top Town “halls of residence” being looked after by team leaders and supporters.

Teams will be bringing local supporters and cheerleading squads to the competition for some in-house support.

Filming will take place at Jellie Park Sports & Recreation Centre from 27 November to 4 December. Tickets can be purchased to be part of the audience from Jellie Park or the Council Civic Offices on Tuam Street.

Prices and session time information can be found on the BeThere.co.nz website.

ENDS

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