Keeping our Olympic team moving

MEDIA RELEASE

July 12, 2012

Keeping our Olympic team moving

The NZ Olympic team will have the support of thirteen physiotherapists at the London Games.

Physios are included in the 27 strong Health team led by Dr Lynne Coleman. Nine of the health team will be based in the Stratford village as well as an additional two doctors, 13 physios and two massage therapists.

Physiotherapy New Zealand (PNZ) President Gill Stotter says physios will play a key role in making sure the athletes remain injury free and performing at their peak – both before and after the games.

“Physios make up almost half of the group, which really reinforces the important work they will do as part of the wider health team.”

“We know several of our members have already left for the games and we want to wish them well for what is sure to be an amazing experience. For some of our members this is the fourth Olympics they have attended, which really reflects the passion, dedication and expertise they have.”

“To be working at this level means they have shown an incredible commitment to excellence and that they can work collaboratively as a health team.”

PNZ will also be cheering on member Karen Hanlen, who will represent NZ in the women’s cross-country mountain bike event.

Karen, a physio at Whakatane Hospital, only took up the sport two years ago when she switched from mountain running. She will be one of 185 NZ athletes competing in London.

Physios heading to London 2012
• Jordan Salesa, Health Team
• Louise Johnson, Health Team
• Helen Littleworth, Health Team
• James Saunders, Canoe/Kayak
• Mark Hollands, Cycling
• Kirsty Walker, Cycling
• Jeffery Roland, Football
• Jen Sayer, Football
• Gavin D’Souza, Hockey
• Fiona O’Connor, Hockey
• Craig Newslands, Rowing
• Phillippa Charlesworth, Sailing
• Michael Lovell, Triathlon

ENDS.

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