I declare myself a passionate ‘Doggies’ supporter having been a member for 50 years. In addition, I have always been continually active in sport and in volunteer work with the ‘Western Region All Abilities Cricket’.
During the 2020 Covid lockdown I joined the Daughters of the West (DOTW) online program. This presented new challenges for me: firstly in mastering Zoom program and secondly, after lockdown restrictions lifted, participating in the ASICS international relay marathon with a Daughters of the West team. This meant yet another steep learning curve to master using the ‘RunKeeper’ app. To my complete surprise our marathon team was one of the winners! I am now fully kitted out in ASCIC running gear. However, my running days are perhaps over in part due to recent knee replacement surgery but probably also my age; at 84 it is time to slow down I suspect.
I was grateful for the support provided to me through DOTW by WBCF and Hobsons Bay City Council in helping me set up Zoom, learn how to navigate the program and have confidence in getting online and participate in the relay marathon.
Since the DOTW program ended I have joined the local DOTW walking group that meets twice a week. Currently I am only able to meet up with the group for coffee. However, once I am fully fit, I will walk with this group. I do look forward to meeting new friends when the DOTW 2021 program starts. The involvement in the program has been extremely rewarding.
I have been fortunate in being able to challenge myself on the running track for the 400m and 800m races. I did not start running until I was 48. However, I have been successful in the Victorian Masters Athletics competition still holding the national 55–60-year-old age group record. So, it is important to understand that age is no barrier to getting active.
For many years I have been volunteering in programs to encourage participation in sport including people with disabilities. I am dedicated to seeing greater participation in sport having coached Little Athletics in the past. Over the last 29 years I have facilitated the Western Region All Abilities Cricket organisation. Initially this was for indoor cricket. I have more recently instigated an outdoor program. These programs provide for teams to travel to regional Victoria as well as the Melbourne area creating opportunity for so many more budding cricketers to get active and share the joy of being with those who have the same interests.
I do recognise the shared values that the Western Bulldogs Community Foundation provides in creating an inclusive society that contributes to the well-being of our community.
For further information about the programs visit www.westernbulldogs.com.au/foundation
