Drysdale is New Zealand’s Top Sportsman for 2006

Drysdale is New Zealand’s Top Sportsman for 2006

The world’s fastest single sculler and two times world champion Mahé Drysdale has won New Zealand’s top sporting accolade, the Halberg Award.

Drysdale’s stunning Single Sculls world title defence at Eton in 2006 captured the imagination of voters and the judging panel alike and he secured the overall award ahead of other top New Zealand sportsmen and women including Moss Burmester (swimming), Kalon Dobbin (speed skating), Richie McCaw (rugby) and Nick Willis (athletics).

Mahé received his award from former winner and fellow single sculling champion Rob Waddell – now a key man in New Zealand’s America’s Cup team.

“I row because I love the sport and have goals I want to achieve,” said Mahe. “The reward for me is being able to make a career out of what I love as well as the successes I have achieved so far. It is very flattering and humbling for my achievements to be recognised by the public, media and other sports people and a great honour to join New Zealand’s sporting greats as a winner of the Halberg Award.

“I am very proud to be a Kiwi. The support I receive from everyone really does help motivate me to keep achieving.”

Rowing New Zealand’s CEO Craig Ross said Drysdale’s race to the world title was one of the finest in the history of the sport.

“Mahé had a remarkable year in 2006 and it is absolutely great for him and indeed for the sport that he has picked up this very important, and highly prestigious award.

“His record-breaking race against Marcel Hacker for the world title was a breathtaking display of skill and guts that had every rowing and sports enthusiast in New Zealand on the edge of their seats. It is already legendary and will remain so.

“Combine that with a truly remarkable year when he competed at more international events than any other top rower in the world and it’s easy to see why he is an immensely popular champion.”

Each year the Halberg Trust celebrates the success of New Zealand’s sporting achievements over a 12-month period at the Westpac Halberg Awards Dinner, now acknowledged as this country’s showcase sporting evening.

ENDS

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