OPPORTUNITY KNOCKS

REALISATION OF A DREAM: Renee Holmes sets off on a run for the Black Ferns against the Barbarians. Picture by Kane Hames

When Renee Holmes had to return home from Japan in the midst of a pandemic, she didn't know how much her life would change.

For many, Covid-19 has brought a difficult time of uncertainty, but Holmes has made the most of it and earned her first cap for the Black Ferns.

The Gisborne-raised sports star said she had a split focus on sevens and rugby before starting her Farah Palmer Cup season for Waikato.

She had just returned home from Japan where she was preparing to play a second season of sevens professionally and was excited to be playing rugby in New Zealand again, albeit unexpectedly.

A stellar season thrust her into the discussion for Black Fern selection, but she never thought it would happen so soon.

Last Saturday in Nelson she ran on to the pitch wearing No.15 on her black jersey and played the full 80 minutes.

Every step of the way Holmes has talked about how fortunate she was, with no expectations of making it any further than she already had.

That humility and her desire to soak up as much knowledge as she could helped her rise quickly through the ranks and into a starting place with the Black Ferns.

Holmes had spoken in the past about juggling her sevens and rugby, saying it was a tough balance.

She is still walking that tightrope, having been selected to play in the upcoming Red Bull Ignite7 tournament, where she won the MVP (most valuable player) award last year.

What is certain is that this sporting prodigy has shown she has all the makings of success.