Club News

I went to the book launches of both Lorraine Moller and Peter Snell's new books last week.

"On the Wings of Mercury" is Lorraine's autobiography and "From Olympian to Scientist" is co-written by Peter and Garth Gilmour. Both have a RRP of $40.

Capital Books in Wellington was the venue for Lorraine's launch last Thursday night and along with Rhonda our Deputy Club Captain, I got to hear Lorraine read a section of the book relating to the last 10 miles of the 1992 Barcelona Olympic Marathon in which she won a Bronze medal, where she had that age old battle of 2 wills, one wanting to go for it because she felt good and one wanting to be cautious in case she blew up. I leave it to the book to let people find out how that ended up. Suffice it to say, I could have sworn I was listening to two different people talking.

Lorraine has a very good way with words and can now be recognised as not only a champion runner, but a very accomplished writer. I recommend this book to any runner wanting to get something more out of their chosen sport and an insight into what it takes to become a champion. Lorraine had her Bronze Medal with her. She calls it her Gold Medal and liked it so much she had it bronzed.

The Lower Hutt Chamber of Commerce hosted a luncheon last Friday for the launch of Peter Snell's book, held at the Hutt Golf Club. This time I had Lyndon along with me, a chance for him to meet the great man and to get a photograph taken with him (attached). Peter related a few humourous anecdotes, spoke of his involvement as a research scientist in Dallas, Texas and answered questions. He still manages to take to task former administrators of Athletics in NZ on decisions they made 40 odd years ago.

His overall message however, was to remind people of the need to take care of our health as we grow older. The 'Third Age' and how we cope with getting old is the focus of his research. The bottom line is to eat a variety of fresh foods - limit the not so fresh and processed, but over all keep exercising, whatever that level is for the individual. AND to get the appropriate medical checks one should get as we grow older.