Departure Of Warrior King, Ardie
After several years when in each of them, he should have been named the world's best rugby player, Ardie Savea was finally awarded the title two weeks ago.
Ardie is not staying around the Sports Institute in Heretaunga for 2024 and as the leader and captain of Hurricanes as he has taken a "sabbatical" to play for big bucks in Japan.
But he will be back for the ABs in their international part of the season.
Around 2013 I was in the Cossie club in Himitangi watching Hurricanes play one of the top NZ sides in the Super rugby comp. All Black great, Julian "The Bus" Savea scored one or two of his famous tries of the time and a bloke at the club said to me that his brother was going to be an even greater player. No way I had thought.
So cometh the time, cometh the man, and Ardie has probably outdone his older brother.
An Aunt of Ardie and Julian lives in Upper Hutt and she is very proud of her nephews.
I still believe that Ardie's best position in the loose forward department is openside flanker but he has been forced to hone some of his talents towards the number 8 role.
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.
Falls Prevention Exercise
Upper Hutt Seniors, this is a new exercise class for you. Join Age Concern Wellington at the Maidstone Sports Hub, 11 Railway Avenue, Maidstone, at 11:00 a.m. on 19 November for a class designed for seniors to improve strength, help prevent falls, and make new friends. Bring a water bottle and flat, comfy shoes.
Call 044996648 for information. Gold coin donation.