New Zealanders at the World Deaf Games in Köln

1981 •

Footage of the World Deaf Games in Köln, of New Zealanders in action. Two New Zealand athletes won medals at the games.

Footage of the World Deaf Games in Köln, of New Zealanders in action. Two New Zealand athletes won medals at the games: the Palmerston North cyclist, Johannes Ooteman won a gold medal for his 35km road race while the wrestler Robert Algie (Featherston) won two silver medals. After the Games, the New Zealanders fly back home to New Zealand via London and Hong Kong. They also make a fleeting visit to Macau.

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NZSL story – Taonga source: Susie Ovens

Oops, That Was Me! Susie’s Athletics Mix-Up at the 1981 Deaf Games

At just 15 years old, Susie competed in the 100m and 200m events at the 1981 World Deaf Games in Köln, with Barbara Hazelwood from Palmerston North as her chaperone. Nervous before her first race, she climbed down through the stadium seats to reach the track, only to be stopped by an official who reminded her to use the proper tunnel like the other athletes. He let her through, but Susie was surprised (and a bit embarrassed!) to see the rest of her heat arrive in a formal line. She loved the deaf-friendly starting system, with ground lights that flashed when the gun fired. But in the 200m, things took a twist. Her team manager mistakenly told her she hadn’t qualified for the final. Later, while watching the race, she saw an empty lane… and her name on the scoreboard. She had qualified after all, but it was too late – a once-in-a-lifetime moment missed!

NZSL story – Taonga source: Shona McGhie

A Silver to Remember: Shona’s Memories from the 1981 World Deaf Games

In 1981, Shona McGhie travelled to Köln, Germany, to attend the World Deaf Games as a supporter, joining Colleen Norris to cheer on the New Zealand athletes. While there, she witnessed the incredible performance of NZ wrestling representative Robert Algie. Though she can’t recall exactly which round, she remembers the electric atmosphere, the huge crowd, and the overwhelming support as Robert battled his way through to the finals. His effort paid off – he proudly earned a silver medal for New Zealand. Shona describes it as a unique and emotional moment.

New Zealanders at the World Deaf Games in Köln

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Oops, That Was Me! Susie’s Athletics Mix-Up at the 1981 Deaf Games

A Silver to Remember: Shona’s Memories from the 1981 World Deaf Games

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