 52 young athletes from Wellington's secondary schools enjoyed the company of Olympic champion cyclist Sarah Ulmer and ex Kiwi Rugby League player , Sam Panapa in an event held at Te Papa on 20th July. The event was organised by Drug Free Sport NZ in association with College Sport Wellington. The day started with a question and answer session for the young visitors. Discussion centered around questions about the experiences that Panapa and Ulmer had enjoyed and endured in their sports careers. The group were then invited to view The Poisoners! exhibit which is running at Te Papa until October 7th. Within the exhibit the students were able to meet "Mel and Tam"- two animated athletes that have been designed to communicate key messages about the potentially poisonous nature of doping in an interactive experience provided by Drug Free Sport NZ. The students quickly recognised the familiar voices of the virtual athletes - as they have been narrated by Sarah Ulmer and Sam Panapa. After a fact finding activity in the exhibit the pinnacle of the event was providing an opportunity for the athletes to sign the drug free pledge and commit to clan sports. Finally the students enjoyed more discussion time with their guests, and then stayed to get posters signed and have some one on one chat time. Earlier in the day, Ulmer and Panapa were guests on the "Good Morning Show". The interview featured discussion about many athletes signing the drug free pledge and the work that is currently being conducted around the world under the guidance of the World Anti Doping Agency. |
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