I found this great story about a boy waiting for a liver who went to New Zealand to carry out the South African flag in front of the Springboks when they played Samoa in Auckland. As possibly not the the most fanatical supporter of rugby, it made me consider how many amazing events are occurring within the World Cup’s periphery. I will be paying closer attention from now on.
JOHANNESBURG 4 October 2011 – The ultimate dream for any Rugby supporter became a reality for one special Reach For A Dream recipient this week, when 18-year-old Nathan April from Cape Town proudly carried the South African flag to lead out the Springboks for their match against Samoa at the Rugby World Cup 2011 in Auckland, New Zealand.
Nathan, who is a liver transplant patient at the Red Cross Children’s Hospital, had always wished to attend a live rugby match. But never in his wildest dreams did he envisage that he would have the opportunity to represent his country at a Rugby World Cup match. ‘I still can’t believe that I was at the stadium holding our South African flag with the whole world looking at me. It has not only been an awesome experience but it something I will treasure for the rest of my life,’ said Nathan.
Emirates Airways, one of the world’s fastest growing airlines and proud worldwide partner of Rugby World Cup 2011, offered Nathan the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity as part of its commitment to the sport and its passionate South African fans. The Reach For A Dream recipient¹s visit to New Zealand included door to door limousine transfers, two return Business Class flights to Auckland via Dubai, access to the luxurious Emirates Business Class lounge at the airline’s state-of-the-art Terminal 3 in Dubai, four nights’ accommodation in Auckland and tickets for Nathan and his father to watch South Africa v Samoa once the flag bearer had completed his duties.
‘Reach For A Dream fulfills dreams within the borders of South Africa and is not usually able to facilitate dreams involving international travel. It’s absolutely wonderful that Emirates has given the foundation and our dreamer, Nathan, the opportunity to have an experience beyond his wildest imagination’ says Western Cape branch manager Heidi Rowley.
Has sport changed your life in some way? Let us know!
Photos: MarkMeredith
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