Its All In The Genes
Mens Sana In Corpore Sano* was misquoted in an earlier Bulletin but tonight saw the proper use of the phrase.
Sport as a means of exercise and healthy living is increasingly seen as important, and the motto of Nuku Ora (previously named Sport Wellington) is to achieve "improved well being through increased physical activity."
Karen Aitken chairs Nuku Ora, an organisation founded in 1991 which encourages sport and healthy physical activity and has an outreach which spans from Wellington to Otaki and Eketahuna.
After gaining two degrees Karen amassed extensive work experience in countries such as South Africa and Scotland, and was employed by JP Morgan and the NZ Police to name just a few. For the last nine years she has chaired Sport Wellington, with its 50 staff.
The organisation advises 245 schools and among others, contracts with ACC, the Ministry of Education and the District Health Boards helping to develop leadership within sports clubs. It also organises some high profile events such as the "Round The Bays" run, and the Wellington Sports Awards. Its vision is for everyone to be healthy, active and happy, and its stated purpose is "Transforming lives in the Wellington Region".
Most people enjoy watching sport, but the encouragement of sport at the grass roots level is often under-appreciated. Thank you Karen for what you and Sport Wellington are doing.
*For non-Latin speakers," A Healthy mind in a Healthy Body"
