by Maryke Penman

 

As the second quarter of the State Beach Series gets under way, top contenders are emerging as they compete for a share of the $14,900 cash prize pool to be awarded at the conclusion of the series.

 

Among these is five-time Olympian Barbara Kendall. Having competed in each of the four stand up paddle races so far, Kendall is currently in second place on the series leaderboard.

 

The mother of two has a busy lifestyle as she juggles various roles on the International Olympic Committee as well as being a motivational speaker, but says she sees the Beach Series as a priority each week.

 

“I spend about 90 days a year doing honorary work for various committees and organizations so it’s really busy,” says Kendall.

 

“But the beach series keeps me honest in terms of where I am with my fitness. Having such an irregular lifestyle I try and keep it as a focus on Tuesdays and I schedule all my appointments and travels around it,” she says.

 

Following 21 years competing at the top of her sport, Kendall says she finds it hard to maintain her fitness without the motivation of future competitions.

 

“Usually I don’t push myself like I used to, I’ve become more of a cruiser. So the beach series is good in that it makes me do one really hard aerobic fitness session every week and I’ll dig it in,” says Kendall. 

Last night was one of those times in your career when you stop and go WOW how amazing is this!!!!

This will be a first and last in NZ sporting history when all 6 female gold medallists from the Olympic Games were together in one room sharing their experiences.
To think there are only 6 of us in the New Zealand spanning from 1952 when Yvette won her gold in the long jump to 2008 when Valerie and the Twins won their gold medals.
We all had an interview style session and talked about events leading up to winning, what it felt like to win, how it changed our lives and what we are all up now. It was so inspiring to hear the other girls stories - things I hadn't heard about and how there was a common thread of undeniable determination, competitive spirit and against the odds type achievements. I feel so priviledged to be a part of this fine group of woman who paved the way f
Yvette Corlett (nee Williams) - Helsinki 1952, Athletics (long jump)Barbara Kendall - Barcelona 1992, Boardsailing (Lechner)Sarah Ulmer - Athens 2004, Cycling (Individual Pursuit)Caroline Meyer (nee Evers-Swindell) - Athens 2004 and Beijing 2008, Rowing (Double sculls)Georgina Earl (nee Evers-Swindell) - Athens 2004 and Beijing 2008, Rowing (Double sculls)Valerie Adams - Beijing 2008, Athletics (shotput)"

Pacific Pearl's arrival is getting closer and she's also bringing summer with her which is fantastic.  I'm really looking forward to 'the big' day on December 21 at Queens Wharf when I get to fulfil my godmother duties and officially name Pacific Pearl by breaking a bottle of New Zealand sparkling across her bow!

It's a real honour to be asked to be godmother of Pacific Pearl, and P&O Cruises' first New Zealand godmother.  My ties to the sea are very strong and have been throughout my life, both for competition and relaxation, and the godmother role fits in perfectly with all that I love.

If you haven't heard yet New Zealanders are being invited to Pacific Pearl's welcome party, a huge Pacific Island Family Christmas Festival on December 21 at Queens Wharf.  It will be great fun and promises to be the biggest party Auckland has seen for a long time, complete with fireworks and a huge Ferris wheel.  I've got a couple of very excited daughters - and husband! - who can't wait for the fun and to also get on board the ship for a look around.  They are even more excited about our family cruise in May next year onboard Pacific Pearl.

Pacific Pearl will be a magnificent ship and I'm sure with New Zealanders having such a love, and close affiliation to the sea, that they will be as excited about the arrival of the ship as I am. See you all at the party!
  

Let Go - Masterton.Yesterday I took one of the most rewarding Let Go workshops so far.
65 Woman from the Wairarapa. Organised by Carissa and Sarah from Bubbles and Champagne!!!
You girls did a fab job of putting the whole thing together - thanks heaps.
Despite the marathon of trying to getting there and back again it was WELL worth it!!
Thanks for all your feedback girls!!!!!
This workshop has really given me the affirmation that I am on the right track and doing the something that makes a difference~!!!!
such a buzz!!!


"very relaxed atmosphere and practical advice to dealing with actions and life situations - made me have a good look at my life, planning, obtaining goals, thoroughly enjoyed being at this workshop - passion and positivity"


"Barbara helped me by identifying triggers and visualizing"

"I enjoyed the mix of listening, active participation, and the opportunity to meet new people"

"How important it is to reset goals, and remembering to laugh""to be honest the entire workshop was awesome"


"The workshop gave me the ability to take time to reflect on the big picture rather than the day to day life routines"