Albany athletes honoured

Massey’s Albany-based World University Games team members were congratulated on their success at an event this week.

The games are held every four years and are the second largest global multisport event after the Olympics. For many sports, the games are of a comparable or higher standard than the Commonwealth Games.

The New Zealand team won 12 medals, with nine Massey athletes winning medals either individually or as part of a swimming relay team.

Vice Chancellor Steve Maharey told the eight athletes present they were proof that Massey was New Zealand’s leading sports university.

“Massey provides the flexibility and support services that elite athletes need to succeed. It can set you up for both your sporting goals and provide a career after sport.”

Albany campus registrar Andrea Davies said she was proud of the way the athletes had represented the University at an event that is second only in size to the Olympics as a multisport event.

Swimmer Amaka Gessler, who won a silver medal as part of the women’s 4x200 relay team, said the games were tough competition but a lot of fun.

She also thanked Massey for the support it gave the team, particularly the Massey flag featuring messages of support that was sent over. “It was great to know we had that support while we were competing on the international stage.”