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LATEST ENTRIES AND NEWS....
 23
teams from 7 countries have now confirmed their entries for the 2008
Carnival. Latest entries came from Southern Downs Golden Oldies – Raging
Rodents (Australia), Ardmore Marist Fat Boys (New Zealand), Merrylands/Parramatta
Paraletic Kelpies (Australia), Albion Allstars (New Zealand) and the
Queensland Police Rugby "Wallopers". The countries represented so far are
USA, New Zealand, Australia, Argentina, Ireland, South Africa and Thailand.
Some special news just received as this newsletter was being produced. The
New York Vintage Whines (the first side to enter) recently closed their 2008
Carnival tour membership and have over 60 people registered to come to
Christchurch (pictured right) - this makes it the
largest NY Vintage Whines team ever assembled (and they have been touring
for many years). Players joining them will be coming from England, Scotland,
USA, Ireland, Wales, New Zealand and Australia. Team organiser, Geoff
Andrews, is naturally delighted to be bringing such a large group to
Christchurch. The team has adopted and adheres to the original objectives of
the Vintage Whines (as written by Bobby Coyne see
http://www.newyorkrugby.com/content/view/107/232/
MEET ANOTHER TEAM COMING TO
CHRISTCHURCH....
 The
Pinguisaurios are one of two Argentina teams already registered for the 2008
Carnival. They were a very popular team at the Buenos Aires Carnival and the
side was awarded the prize for ‘The Most Original Team Parade Uniform’ (pictured
left). Their leader is Carlos Bomacahza and he gave Vintage Rugby some
background details about the team…
Pinguisaurios is the veteran team of the Pingüinos Rugby Club which was
founded in Pergamino in 1961 - a small town of 100,000 inhabitants, located
220km to the North of Buenos Aires City. Rugby is the only sport at the
club. The Pinguisaurios team (a combination of Penguin and Dinosaur) was
created in 1999. The team has over 40 members with an average team age of 42
who meet weekly for training and always for a good post training barbecue.
In recent years the Pingüisaurios have toured France as well as
participating in national and international veteran tournaments in Posadas
and Punta del Este. One unique fact about the team is that one of their
members Roberto Brinand played for C.A.S.I and the Puma’s and now his son
also plays for C.A.S.I and for the U-21 national team – keeping it all in
the family.
We are sure the Pingüisaurios will repeat their popularity in Christchurch.
WE MARK THE PASSING OF A TRUE
FRIEND OF VETERAN RUGBY....
 Vintage
Rugby was sad to read the news from Argentina that Pedro Yacachury (pictured
right), the longtime South American veteran rugby organizer and
supporter had passed away late last year. Pedro was passionate about his
rugby (and his role as a referee), a friend to everyone and a very generous
person. He was a man with great enthusiasm for life and his death will leave
a big gap in the lives of his many friends – especially the veteran rugby
community.
Vintage Rugby extends its sincere sympathy to Pedro’s family and friends at
this sad time. May he rest in peace.
 A
GOOD REASON TO REGISTER FOR THE 2008 CARNIVAL NOW !....
Entry for the 2008 World Vintage Rugby Carnival will be strictly
limited to the first 80 visiting teams to complete the entry process and
there are already 23 teams registered. Enter now to avoid disappointment.
You can enter on-line >>>
VISIT THE MACKENZIE COUNTRY AND YOU
WON’T BE DISAPPOINTED....
In this third focus on the Canterbury region we are highlighting
the fantastic MacKenzie country …
 The
majestic Mackenzie District is home to vast array of features from snowy
mountain peaks, icy glaciers to distinctive turquoise blue lakes. The
Mackenzie District will inspire you to enjoy life to the max whilst taking
the time to reflect and breathe in the fresh alpine air.
Start your journey off in Fairlie with its rich rolling hills and pastures.
Fairlie is a great place to visit any time of the year with four very
distinct seasons. It is the perfect place to stop for a rest and a bite to
eat, with a great variety of cafes to enjoy. Fairlie also has many farm
stays – a great way to experience first hand the ways of ‘Kiwi’ farming and
hospitality.
Approximately an hour’s drive away from Fairlie you will reach Lake Tekapo,
New Zealand’s highest lake. On its shores lie the small stone Church of the
Good Shepherd where many Wedding’s have been conducted (its never too late
you know) with a romantically awe inspiring back drop. There are a broad
range of activities on offer in Tekapo - whether it be fly-fishing, skiing,
boating or having a round of golf - there is something for everyone.
Twizel is an area within the Mackenzie truly focused on adventure and the
outdoors with a wealth of activities available whether it be boating,
canoeing or relaxing and having a barbeque. Twizel is fortunate enough to be
within 20 minutes of 5 boating and leisure lakes, which makes it the perfect
holiday spot for both locals and tourists. Twizel is also home to world
class rowing courses and many multi sports events.
Aoraki Mount Cook is the jewel of the Mackenzie and at 3754 metres it stands
proud above the 27 peaks that form the Southern Alps. Mount Cook is also a
popular National Park that has gained World Heritage status. The Mount Cook
area attracts hundreds of climbers from all around the World, although the
area can be very unforgiving even to experienced climbers. For those who are
not after such a challenge there are many low impact scenic walks with
equally breathtaking scenery.
For a truly unique ‘mind blowing’ Mackenzie experience take a guided walk on
the 27 kilometre Tasman Glacier. Yes you actually climb onto and walk on the
glacier – something you’ll never forget. If walking is not your style take
in the beauty of the glacier via the air and if you’re lucky experience a
glacier landing. For the truly adventurous and experienced skier be
airlifted to a remote mountain peak and carve fresh tracks out of untouched
powder.
So if you are after a unique ‘alpine’ experience, then the Mackenzie
district is waiting for you! See you there!
FREE SINGING LESSONS IN NEW ZEALAND
(BRING RUGBY BOOTS)....
 This
is the message heading a series of promotional posters recently designed and
produced by the Vintage Rugby Office. There are various versions aimed at
different territories.
View the posters >>>
New Zealand
Version:
UK Version:
French
Version:
In addition to these posters there are other promotional
items available.
With the assistance of Christchurch City Council
an informative 7-minute DVD has been produced which provides details about
the 2008 Carnival programme, host clubs, Christchurch City and the
Canterbury region. The DVD has also been loaded on the website. To view
simply click on
http://www.vintagerugby.com/video/index.html
and follow the links to view streaming video, or even save them to your own
PC for repeated viewing or forward this message to a team mate or colleague
who may be interested in being part of the 2008 Christchurch Carnival.
Full details about the 2008 Carnival can be found on the event website
www.vintagerugby.com . Details include information about the
Carnival programme and costs.
The
official Carnival entry brochure (English version) is now available and
loaded on the website.
To view or download >>>. To request
a personal copy of the DVD, Carnival brochure and Christchurch publicity
brochures just send this email to the
Vintage Rugby Office >>>
Christchurch City Council who is a big supporter of the 2008 Carnival
recently released their second special Christchurch newsletter which
includes a wide range of information about Christchurch and what teams can
expect to experience in 2008.
To read this excellent newsletter >>>
APPOINTMENT OF SPORTING HIGHLIGHTS
WILL HELP ENSURE RECORD ENTRIES FROM THE UK AND IRELAND....
Plans to attract record numbers of United Kingdom and Irish teams to the
2008 World Vintage Rugby Carnival next year recently took a major step
forward with the appointment of Sporting Highlights as official Tour
Operator for UK and Ireland. This appointment will ensure a continuous and
professional direct marketing campaign focused on clubs throughout these
rugby playing countries. To read the full press announcement,
Download and view (PDF)>>
 Sporting
Highlights has created an impressive track record over a 20 year period
through their successful work with international sports group travel –
especially rugby clubs and in response to this new challenge has created a
variety of tour packages to suit all budgets. These can be seen at –
www.sportinghighlights.co.uk
Clubs throughout the UK and Ireland will receive special promotional packs
and the company will also be represented at a number of the regular rugby
tournaments such as the Sunshine 7’s during their summer and autumn period.
Teams or individuals requiring tailor made quotations or further information
can call (44) 0845 337 9189 or email
info@sportinghighlights.co.uk
"DO YOU MIND TELLING ME WHY YOU
STILL PLAY ?"
This is the question many veteran rugby players are asked time and
again by their family and friends who don’t play Vintage Rugby (nor
understand how playing it can make life worth living) and even younger
players as well. This story entitled ‘The Oldest Player’, which was written
by David McIlveen-Wright, deftly provides an inspired answer. (It appears on
the Calgary Saracens RFC ‘Old Boys’ Website page).
 The
Oldest Player sat crumpled on a bench in the back corner of the university
locker room, covered in mud, a bit of blood, and quite a few bruises. He had
a blissful look on his face (illustration left).
Had he scored the winning try? Put over a drop kick from half-way? Sprinted
30 yards, even once? Nope. Much more significantly, the Oldest Player had
made it through the rugby game with all his body parts still in the right
places. Every part of him hurt, but he was glad he would be able to walk,
rather than hobble, all the way home later that evening. He knew from long
experience that he'd manage to get up the next morning, just a bit stiff, to
take the kids to the park. His wife would not complain, too much, about him
playing again next week. Total Success!
The Captain, who had scored the winning try, dropped a goal from half-way,
and sprinted 30 yards many times, strode out of the shower singing his
favourite post-match ditty "She Loves a Gang Bang". The Captain was single,
23 years old, and handsome as a movie star. That song reflected his
lifestyle. He noticed The Oldest Player sitting there, paused, shook his
head slowly, then came over. "There's something I've always wanted to ask
you", he said. "Do you mind telling me why you still play? Not that you
don't pull your weight, I mean, you really anchor the front row. But you
used to play on the First XV before most of us were born! Now you volunteer
to play for us down in the fourths. I don't get it."
The Oldest Player smiled. "Lots of people have asked me that", he responded.
"My wife says the same thing before and after every match. Been doing so for
twenty-eight years, poor lass."
"What do you tell her?"
"Something different every time. It drives her crazy."
"Like what?"
"I used to say I play rugby to stay fit, to have fun, and to hang out with
the guys. But I don't say that anymore."
"Why not?"
"Well, mostly because it's not true anymore."
"What's true now?"
 The
Oldest Player sat up a little straighter, pulled out a beer (picture
right) and gave it to The Captain. Then he took a cold can for
himself. He drank one long swallow, as if it were the best brew he had ever
had. He slowly looked The Captain up and down, seeing himself long before
the mortgage, the twins, the grey hair, the bills, and the career that ate
up so much of his time these last few years. He scratched himself,
thoughtfully, and said:
"Do you really want to know? I'll try to explain, if you have a few
minutes."
The Captain didn't really want to be seen hanging out with The Oldest
Player. He might get strange looks from the younger guys. But it was
unlikely anyone would notice him here, in the quiet end of the room, for a
little while.
"Shoot," he said, and sat down opposite.
"Sometimes I tell my wife I'm on a quest."
"A quest?"
"Yes. You know, like a surfer looking for that perfect wave. I'm looking for
the perfect peel off the back of the line-out."
"The perfect peel off the back of the line-out!"
"Yeah. Remember that one I did in the Homecoming game? Went over for a try
from it. Tied the match."
"That's what keeps you playing?! A line-out move?!"
"Yes, partly. Not just that particular move, but any good piece of teamwork
and timing. Scoring is a bonus."
"That's all?"
"That's all. It's a quest for perfection. Very elusive. But isn't that what
life's about? Overcoming opposition, danger and fear. Being courageous.
Acting out of love and friendship, rather than personal gain. Trying to do
everything as well as you possibly can, every time."
"This is too much!" The Captain exclaimed. "You make those things sound
holy! Rugby as a crusade for the meaning of life!"
"It's not just a crusade, searching aimlessly for the meaning of life. Those
things are the meaning of life. They make life worth living."
The Captain, a wing three-quarter, was impressed. He had always thought
forwards must be a bit thick to willingly go into scrums and mauls and such.
"Wow! The meaning of life, eh? And I thought playing rugby was just a cool
excuse to beat up other guys and impress the ladies!"
The Captain stood up and slapped The Oldest Player on the shoulder, forcing
a wince and a rueful grin. Shaking his head, and still mumbling "Wow" to
himself, The Captain wandered slowly off toward the locker room door. The
Oldest Player smiled and opened another beer. He held the cold can against
that nasty scrape he felt on the side of his head. Next time he would tell
The Captain about the mystical role of beer in his quest. Now that was a
concept the younger players might understand.
AMEN
FOR THE NIGHT
OWLS IN CHRISTCHURCH....
There are so many options in Christchurch after
the sun goes down …. Here are just 4 suggestions:
-
 CHRISTCHURCH
CASINO –
www.christchurchcasino.co.nz
(right)
This is a premium spot in the centre of the city for those who like a
‘flutter’ with good entertainment, food and drinks.
- THE GHOST WALK –
www.courttheatre.org.nz
Be prepared to be scared as you walk through the historic Arts Centre.
The nightly escorted tour includes scary stories about the centre with
only a dim light to light your way !
- SCARED SCRIPTLESS –
www.courttheatre.org.nz
The Court Jesters outdo themselves in this hilarious, stand-up comedy
which is staged nightly.
- THE HOLY GRAIL –
www.holygrail.co.nz
The Holy Grail is the largest sports bar in New Zealand and the perfect
venue to watch large scale sports events (and replays) with 3 huge
screens, 5 bars and a grandstand so you can really feel part of the
action !
A UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY TO PLAY RUGBY, MAKE NEW
FRIENDS IN THE ULTIMATE TRAVEL DESTINATION – NEW ZEALAND....
 For
those wishing to explore the wide-open spaces and the outstanding scenic
beauty of New Zealand there are so many different options to consider.
From the majestic World Heritage area of Fiordland in the south west,
through adventure-capital Queenstown, past sweeping lakes and
snow-capped ranges, mountain passes and living glaciers in the Southern
Alps, up the rugged West Coast, and on to Marlborough's famous vineyards
and the boating heaven of the Sounds, the South Island offers wonderful
scenery at every turn. (illustration left)
A short hop by air or ferry across Cook Strait takes you to the capital
city, Wellington, a lively centre of arts and culture including the Te
Papa museum, all framed by steep hills and a magnificent natural
harbour.
 To
the north, Auckland the City of Sails, where countless pleasure boats
and yachts ply the sparkling Waitemata Harbour and the warm sheltered
waters of the Hauraki Gulf. Onto the tropical Far North, with the
endless sweeps of Ninety Mile Beach to the west contrasting the coves
and islets of the aptly named Bay of Islands to the east.
Hawke's Bay is another burgeoning wine region, with fine dining and
tastings at the vineyards and neighbouring Gisborne is where Captain
Cook first stepped ashore. No trip to the North Island is complete
without visiting the thermal wonderland of Rotorua, where the cultural
seat of the earliest Maori settlers is underscored by hot springs,
bubbling mud pools and explosive geysers. (illustration
right)
Yes, New Zealand has something to offer everyone and there are over 400
golf courses scattered around this wonderland as well !
Useful New Zealand tourism links
YOU HAVE TO SEE IT TO BELIEVE IT ….
Take a look at this collection of photos which include wonderful
images of Christchurch, the Canterbury Region and New Zealand – all just
waiting for you to
come and see yourself >>>
FINALLY....
We will keep you updated about Vintage Rugby and the 2008 World Vintage
Rugby Carnival in Christchurch.
Your next issue of the Vintage Rugby update will be sent in six weeks and
will feature more exciting news and views about Vintage Rugby and Christchurch 2008.
And we can keep others up to date too....
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If you’d like us to mail you
material about the 2008 Christchurch Carnival
please
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