Women lead the way in RWC 2011 prep

8/09/2010 9:20:40 a.m.

• Event held to celebrate the leadership and involvement of women in RWC 2011
• Official Tournament update provided by an all-female panel
• Call for more women to play a part in Tournament

On the eve of One Year to Go until Rugby World Cup 2011 (RWC 2011), 150 women have gathered to celebrate the important role of women across the Tournament and provide an update on preparations.

The event, hosted by Rugby New Zealand 2011 Limited (RNZ 2011) Director Julie Christie, COO Therese Walsh and Kerre Woodham, was an opportunity to recognise how women across a variety of roles are contributing to the success of the Tournament.

”Only in New Zealand would you find some many accomplished women involved in the sport of Rugby. We think this is something to celebrate and what better time to do it than on the eve of the one year countdown to kick-off,” said Julie Christie.

Guests included female staff from each of the stakeholders involved in the Tournament as well as media, volunteers and current and former players.

“We also want to encourage more women to get behind the Tournament - get along to a match, sign up to volunteer - be a part of the Stadium of Four Million.”

As part of the event, an all-female panel delivered an official Tournament Update, highlighting the progress being made by the major stakeholders and across New Zealand regions.

“This is very much a team effort up and down the country, but we acknowledge this is a challenging time for Canterbury, one of our key partners,” said Julie Christie.

The four panelists expressed their sympathy for those affected by Saturday’s earthquake and praised the way the community has responded.

“Right now we appreciate Cantabrians have more pressing matters on their plate than RWC 2011. Although, applications for individual match tickets open Friday we will hold back a special allocation of tickets for Christchurch matches which we will make available at a later date,” said Therese Walsh.

Minister Judith Collins updated the attendees on the Government’s preparations for RWC 2011.

“The Government has two broad goals: to help deliver an excellent Tournament, and to ensure New Zealand takes full advantage of the opportunities that flow from it.  On both counts, I can say confidently that preparations are on track. We are determined to make the most of New Zealand's time in the international spotlight," she said.

Therese Walsh, Chief Operating Officer of RNZ 2011 provided an overview of Tournament preparations to date including ticketing, volunteers, match and team operations. 

“With one year to go, we are very confident that New Zealand will be able to deliver a world-class event. Ticket sales are in line with expectations and preparations across match venues are well on track. We have an exciting 12 months ahead of us as we test our logistics, match day processes and finalise all details,” she said.

Rachael Dacy, Chair of Auckland’s RWC 2011 Regional Steering Group, outlined the Tournament preparations happening across the region.

“We are thrilled with the preparations that have been made in the Auckland region so far. The development of Eden Park is almost complete, while transport and waterfront upgrades are charging ahead. It’s now time for Aucklanders to start thinking about how they can embrace the event,” said Rachael Dacy.

Kirsten Patterson, General Manager of Corporate Services for the New Zealand Rugby Union, emphasized the legacy that RWC 2011 will generate for the country and the sport.

“RWC 2011 offers a unique opportunity to engage with New Zealanders from all walks of life. There are so many ways to get involved and enjoy our national sport. The NZRU Legacy Programme for RWC 2011 will help us connect with clubs, schools and players past, present and future and galvanize more people to embrace the Game.”

Activities will continue tomorrow across the country to mark the One Year to Go milestone

Rugby World Cup 2011

Media Release