The New Zealand Olympic Committee hosted a dinner on Thursday 18th November held at the Heritage Hotel to honour six of New Zealands most outstanding and respected sports women. Special guest, US Olympian Richard (Dick) Fosbury, who revolutionized athletics with the Fosbury Flop, was invited to New Zealand by the New Zealand Olympic Committee as part of the occasion. Dick Fosbury was present at the dinner and also took part in a number of events around Auckland including coaching and speaking engagements. Fosbury said the event was unique and Ive never been to an Olympic event that has honoured female Olympians in such a wonderful way. He said the most enjoyable part of the evening was listening to the Golden Girls. He believed everyone would have been inspired as they heard some great stories. He was delighted he could meet such exceptional people. Barry Maister, Secretary General for the New Zealand Olympic Committee said It was a great one off event which will never be repeated. The insights, the memories, the celebration of success and achievement were ingredients which ensured a very special occasion for all those who attended. The six sportswomen who were honoured have each won an Olympic gold medal and are the only New Zealand women to do so. Each of the Golden Girls were treated to a standing ovation from the crowd after their interviews. The gold medal winning women are: Yvette Corlett (nee Williams), Helsinki 1952, Athletics (long jump) Barbara Kendall Barcelona 1992, Board Sailing (Lechner) Sarah Ulmer Athens 2004, Individual Pursuit (track cycling) Caroline Meyer (nee Evers-Swindell) Athens 2004 and Beijing 2008, Double Sculls (rowing) Georgina Earl (nee Evers-Swindell) Athens 2004 and Beijing 2008, Double Sculls (rowing) Valerie Adams Beijing 2008, Athletics (Shotput) Leading New Zealand sports administrator, Susie Simcock, was also presented with the 2010 IOC Trophy for Women in Sport (Oceania). Also at the dinner were other New Zealand Olympians including Peter Miskimmin, Mike Stanley, Hamish Carter, Barry Maister, Vicky Latta and Sir Murray Halberg to name a few.
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