Meander medal master

DECEMBER 2017

THE AUSTRALIAN Masters Games 2017 were held in Devonport in October.

Sandra Atkins of Osmaston competed in both indoor rowing and show jumping, winning gold in the 500m, 1000m and 2000m rowing events in the 75-79 age group.

For show jumping, Sandra won gold in the 70cm scurry and the 6-bar jump, winning silver in the 65cm jump and the power and speed 50cm jump.

Sandra commented, ‘… they were two very diverse sports, but I wanted to get fitter for riding and I used to love rowing as a youngster … the rowing has definitely helped my riding, so much stronger in my core strength and fitness. The best decision I’ve made in years!’.

In other events, the Deloraine Devils Netball Club Masters were first-timers in the over 30s age group at the Devon Netball Centre, Spreyton. The Devils played 8 games in 5 days, undefeated, to win the gold medal 30 to 18.

The weather was beautiful and Devils thoroughly enjoyed the Masters - with several trips to the beach for recovery.

Connie Frydrych of Mole Creek is an experienced competitor, living up to the Masters’ motto ‘Swimming for Fun, Fitness and Friendship’.

Connie began competitive swimming in Rhodesia at age 7, returning to competitive swimming in South Africa as a Master in 1984 and joining Australian Masters in 1994.

Over 33 years, Connie has attended ten World Championships, five World Masters, two Pan Pacific and two Australian Masters, accumulating fifteen gold, five silver and five bronze medals. She holds eight Tasmanian State records in the 60-64 age group.

Connie won 4 gold medals this year, in the 100m individual medley, 50m backstroke, 100m backstroke and 50m freestyle.

She says ‘Backstroke has always been my favourite ...’

Photo | Mike Moores