Maori Magic Wins Again

Tariana Turia, Co-leader, Maori Party

"It doesn't get any better than this" stated Tariana Turia, Co-leader of the Maori Party today, after hearing of the incredible victory of Maori superstar golfer, Michael Campbell, in winning the US Open.

"The Maori Party is delighted to congratulate 'Cambo' for a sensational achievement, an achievement which places Maori on the map, yet again".

"This is a moment of huge pride for tangata whenua, particularly Nga Rauru and Ngati Ruanui, as we honour the indigenous magic of Maori".

"This young man, who was named Maori athlete of the decade in 2000, was the first New Zealander to win the Australian amateur (1992) and now the first New Zealander to win a major golfing win since Bob Charles took the British open in 1963".

"In the time of Matariki, it is a moment in history that we are all savouring as we watch Maori in all fields, taking on the world.

"Michael's triumph today caps off a thrilling fortnight as we note the excitement of the Maori win against the Lions; the success of former Maori Rugby captain Norm Hewitt in ballroom dancing, the achievement of Ngapuhi man, Ralph Norris in taking up the leadership of Australia's Commonwealth Bank and we know there are extra-ordinary achievements and extra-ordinary people just waiting in the wings".

"It is particularly fitting that as we opened the national Young Maori Leaders conference in Wellington today we celebrated a young man of Titahi Bay, who at the age 12 was asked what his career plans were, and replied "I want to be a professional golfer and be the best in the world".

"With today's results, Michael has proved that indeed anything is possible if we believe in ourselves".

"It is a day to shout 'Go Maori' from the rooftops! A day of great pride for us all in Aotearoa".

ENDS

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