Media Release:
14th FEBRUARY
ROB WADDELL JOINS TEAM NEW ZEALAND
Olympic Gold medal winner Rob Waddell has joined Team New Zealand. The 26-year-old rower signed a contract yesterday
afternoon and now begins full-time training as a grinder with the kiwi sailing team during their current trials for the
America's Cup in 2003.
Waddell says he still wants to represent New Zealand in rowing at the next Olympics in Athens in 2004; but for at least
the next two years he is committed to Team New Zealand.
During the last three months Team New Zealand has evaluated a select group of elite athletes from various sports in an
effort to add strength to the sailing team. Most of the athletes, including Waddell, have not previously been involved
in competitive sailing.
The athletes were tested for fitness, strength and their performance on a pedestal grinding rig; several have also been
trialling on the Team New Zealand yachts.
In confirming the new signing today, skipper Dean Barker said significant factors in selecting Waddell over other worthy
contenders had been his proven athletic ability, his strength and his determined attitude towards winning. Waddell has
already had ten days sailing with Team New Zealand during his evaluation trials on the Hauraki Gulf.
14th February 2000
For further information please contact:
Murray Taylor
Media & Communications
Team New Zealand
Telephone: (09) 303 2000
Mobile: 025 294 7930