NZ ‘must build’ on success of World Deaf Games

New Zealand deaf sports competitors and officials must build on the successes and achievements of the 16th World Games for the Deaf which ended in Christchurch on Monday, the games committee chairman, John Macdonald, said today.

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NZSL story – Taonga source: Jeff Went

Part 3: Marathon Struggles & a Race Against Time to Get Home!

In the final part of the series, Jeff wraps up the New Zealand team’s experience in Bulgaria. The marathon team was frustrated with the poor state of the roads and the air quality, which made conditions difficult. On their journey home, the team nearly faced another hurdle – after their first flight was delayed, they worried they’d miss their Qantas connection. Fortunately, their plane was held back, ensuring they made it home in the end!

NZSL story – Taonga source: Jeff Went

Part 2: Bulgaria on a Budget – The NZ Deaf Team’s Wild Discoveries

Jeff Went continues recounting the team’s time in Bulgaria, where they discovered just how cheap everything was – a loaf of bread and a pack of cigarettes both cost just 20 cents! He recalls his surprise at being handed a thick wad of cash for additional expenses and the challenge of carrying it around. The team also faced another shock – arriving at a swimming pool filled with murky green water! Thankfully, the issue was resolved, and later, Jeff had to accompany an athlete for an audiological test as part of the Games.

NZSL story – Taonga source: Jeff Went

Part 1: Smoking on the Plane?! The NZ Deaf Team’s Shocking Flight to Bulgaria

Jeff Went, Team Manager and NZDSA Delegate for the New Zealand Deaf team at the 1993 World Games for the Deaf in Bulgaria, shares one of the team’s most unusual experiences. To their shock, smoking was completely accepted on the Bulgarian airline – passengers, air hostesses, and even the pilot were lighting up! With smoke drifting throughout the cabin on the long-haul flight, it made for an extremely uncomfortable journey.

John MacDonald