Crookwell Pup’s donation to our Olympians. L-R Paddy Lowe, Luke McCue, Josh Lowe, Kerri-Ann Pratley, Venetta Smith, Lachlan McCue and Alex Lowe.
THE annual Crookwell Pups Sportsman’s Lunch, which was held Friday July 6, was a resounding success.
Around 160 gentlemen attended with the Guest of Honour, Duncan Armstrong, giving an excellent presentation of his achievements in the world of swimming.
Duncan focused more on his earlier life as a teenage swimmer and joining the squad under Laurie Lawrence after his parents moved from Rockhampton to Brisbane so Duncan could pursue his career.
It was very entertaining hearing Duncan talk of Laurie’s quirks and off-beat coaching style which resulted in some our most memorable swimming champions.
Following the speech Duncan accepted questions from the floor, which again was entertaining and informative covering a range of topics.
An auction was conducted after that which raised close to $10 000.
The success of this, of course, is only possible with the support of our many sponsors which include; Telstra, Wind Prospect CWP, CA Brumbies, Novartis, Pfizer, Jim’s Mobile Butcher’s, Lion Nathan and Bunnamagoo Wines. Thankyou to Crookwell Services Club for the excellent meal and supporting the day.
As a result of the profit made the Pups were able to present $500 each to our own Olympians, Brooke Pratley and Emily Smith, to help with their costs while competing in London.
As they were not able to personally accept the donation, mothers Kerri-Ann Pratley and Venetta Smith accepted the donation on behalf of their daughters.
“Thank you so much for this wonderful donation,” said Kerri-Ann on behalf of both herself and Venetta.
“I know how hard it is to raise money, we really do appreciate it.
“And more than anything, it’s the thought,” she said.
The Pup’s wish them all the best.
Of the remaining profit an amount is set aside for the running of the Junior Rugby club for 2013 with the rest being a sizable donation to the Crookwell Community Trust.