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Mary McFarlane awarded with Swimming New Zealand Life Membership

Swimming New Zealand Life Membership awarded to Mary McFarlane in recognition of her services to our swimming community for over 50 years.

 

 

Mary McFarlane from Otago has been awarded with a Swimming New Zealand Life Membership for her commitment to swimming in New Zealand for more than 50 years. Mary received this award to a standing ovation from the swimming community on the opening evening of the 2022 Apollo Projects Division II Swimming Competition in her hometown on Dunedin. Mary received the award from fellow Swimming New Zealand Life Member, Ron Clarke.


 
 

Swimming New Zealand’s President, Jaynie Hudgell (nee Parkhouse), announced the award via a video message, and Ron presented her with the life membership certificate, pocket and pin.

 

Mary spoke shortly after receiving her Life Membership, where she said she was “absolutely surprised, I can’t believe it!”

 

Mary thanked everyone who had been involved in swimming during her time within the sport, paying special tribute to her family, officials and swimmers. Mary acknowledged she “couldn’t have done this by myself, thank you so much.”

  

Mary McFarlane has been involved in swimming for more than 50 years, with her first involvement at her local Kiwi Amateur Swimming Club in Otago. Since then, Mary has held multiple roles within swimming. From swimming administration as Club President and Regional President, to Team Manager at national and international events and as a regular Technical Official at regional and national meets. Mary has officiated internationally at Pan Pacific Games and FINA Oceania Championships, having celebrated birthdays whilst away in recent years.

 

Mary’s contribution to swimming saw her recognised in 2021 when she received the Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit (ONZM). Mary has regularly promoted the sport as a patron in Otago and the entire swimming community congratulates Mary on receiving her Swimming New Zealand Life Membership. Mary – thank you for your contribution to our sport!