The Wairarapa connection are preparing to do the business for New Zealand at an international Masters women's hockey tournament which gets under way in Birmingham, England later this month. Former Wairarapa College students Lynda West (nee Robinson) and Rachel Percy, both of whom are now based in Palmerston North, will bekey players in a Kiwi side expected to be a dominant force in the 35-40yrs age group. A New Zealand success over opposition from five other nations Australia, Malaysia, England, Wales and Scotland would continue a wonderful record for West, who was part of the gold medal-winning sides in 2003, 2004 and 2005. Interestingly enough she was unavailable last year and New Zealand's winning run came to an end. Making this year's tourney more special for West is that the centre back will also have the responsibility of captaincy and the youth aid officer for the Palmerston North police is optimistic of a strong showing. "We've only had the one training session but the signs are good, there's a lot of talent in the side," she said. In Carterton this week to speak at their Young Achievers awards ceremony and visit her parents, Max and Pam Robinson, West recalled leaving the Wairarapa in 1986 after a hockey career which saw her turn out for Carterton, Dalefield, Wairarapa College and the Wairarapa under-21 and senior rep sides. She spent 15 years in Otago where she completed her physical education degree before joining up with the police force and she played national league hockey for that province. A move to Wanganui followed and then onto Palmerston North and further hockey honours have included selection in the national Police and Combined Services sides and two years as skipper of the New Zealand indoor team.
