Kiwis quick to lend a hand

13 August 2012

Kiwis quick to lend a hand

The Rugby World Cup flow on continues down south as over 100 kiwis have opted to volunteer their time to the Junior Track World Championships (JTWC) in Invercargill next week.

Volunteerism was prolific during the recent Rugby World Cup in New Zealand, and seems to have had a lasting effect on many of those who donned the unique turquoise uniform.

“I think the Rugby World Cup last year showed volunteering in a new light for a lot of New Zealanders. So many people had such a great experience in being part of an event and making a contribution to something so great, that they’ve been hooked,” said Cycling Southland CEO Nick Jeffrey.

“A large portion of the 120 volunteers who will assist with the JTWC have scheduled a full week’s annual leave to be part of this event, which is truly amazing.“

Volunteers will be situated all around the event at the Stadium Southland Velodrome; from managing results and starting gates, to accreditation and corporate hosting, and more than 30 medical staff, this world-class event would not be possible without each of their contributions.

“It would be the same anywhere in New Zealand I’m sure, but for Invercargill this is just the way we do things; people want to lend a hand anyway they can,” said Jeffrey.

JTWC volunteer coordinator Cathy Jordan said there is a lot of personal satisfaction that can come from offering your services as an event volunteer.

“I think people often volunteer because they like to be part of a community, and they get to be on the inside of a cool event like this; it has a great social aspect as well,” said Jordan.

“When you see a positive outcome for an event you’ve been a part of, and see everyone enjoying themselves, there’s a certain level of satisfaction that goes with that.”

Track cycling teams from more than 20 different countries will travel to Invercargill for the event, which will take place on August 22-26.

ENDS

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