Infant sport does well

Press, 25 May 1984, Page 26

Infant sport does well

The peculiar baton-like objects held by Jenny and Peter Fitchett (above) might baffle some people, but for the Christchurch brother and sister they are vital pieces of sports equipment.

The objects are the “sticks” used in underwater hockey, and the Fitchett’s have recently returned from Chicago, where they represented New Zealand at the

world championships. A third Canterbury player, Paul Sheppard was also in the men’s team.

For Jenny, who will shortly turn 20, it was her second venture to a world championship, although the team’s placing remained the same. New Zealand beat Canada and the United States, but played second fiddle to Australia, the side

which won the previous world event two years ago.

Twice as many nations took part in the men’s competition in which New Zealand finished sixth behind Australia, the Netherlands, Canada, Britain and the United States.

Both Jenny and Peter have been involved with the Papanui swimming club, and started their association

with under-water hockey five years ago. Most of their matches are staged in the diving well at Queen Elizabeth II pool, a venue, which both agree is one of the best for the sport. About 60 people are involved in the sport in Christchurch, but it is growing in popularity and it is hoped that the next world championships will be staged in the city.