As part of the annual Conbrio Northland Sports Awards, Sport Northland in conjunction with the Northern Advocate, run a People’s Choice Award, choosing a different theme every year.

This year it will be people’s favourite 2017 Northland World Masters Games Athlete.

After having received many nominations, our awards judging panel has chosen four finalists; and we are now asking the public to vote for the athlete that you believe has some kind of ‘defining’ characteristics, achievements or qualities that makes them an athlete that deserves to be recognised.

The finalists announced this week for the public to vote on are as follows:

Ady McKenzie:

Ady picked up gold medals in the 10km road race and 8km cross country in the 40-44 age group. She coupled this with finishing second overall (all age group) in both races in an incredible effort. Ady is passionate about her own sporting goals but also offers enthusiastic and knowledgeable encouragement and inspiration to others.

Dennis Langford:

Multi-code athlete Dennis Langford was a common sight at the World Masters Games in Auckland as he competed in three different events. In the 40-44 division he took home a silver medal in the discus and added bronze medals in both the javelin and decathlon.

Langford took on an active role inside the team with his support being acknowledged and appreciated by many members of the Northland contingent, who considered him the life and soul of the Northland Masters World Games team.  He encouraged everyone to take part in the event.

Jill Coyle:

Jill decided to take on the triple-disciplined triathlon at the World Masters Games and had more than just competing on her mind. She was raised $1500 for breast cancer through completing the event and, in some treacherous conditions, toiled through the event in a time of 1:52.21. Jill was the only person not wearing a wetsuit for the swim, but she didn't care as pink ribbons had been drawn on her arms. She was very nervous on the day but her friend, who was going through chemo for breast cancer, turned up and after that she was determined to finish the event.

Vanessa Lawgun:

Vanessa has built a strong weightlifting and CrossFit reputation across both New Zealand and Australia and her efforts at the World Masters Games enhanced that.

In the 45-49 age group she finished with a bronze medal after a strong showing in Auckland.

She has an incredible spirit and is very dedicated to her sport, motivating others to be better.

We are now asking the public to vote for your Favourite Northland World Masters Games Athlete from the list above. You can vote by either emailing your winner to competitions@northernadvocate.co.nz or text NAD and your vote to 021 241 4568. or Click Here to vote online 

Voting will close on Sunday 26 November, after which the votes will be counted and the winner announced at the 2017 Conbrio Northland Sports Awards, to be held at the ASB Stadium on Friday 1 December.

Tickets for the night are now on sale and are available by contacting Nicky Stroebel on 437 9605 or nickys@sportnorth.co.nz