A year on from the day of the devastating earthquake that decimated the city of Christchurch as we know it, perhaps it's a good time to remember those fond memories, the good times which this still-beautiful city has had in the past - and will continue to do so in the future.
Hate them or love them, the Crusaders are undoubtedly New Zealand's most successful sports franchise of modern times - national teams not included. They've won the Super Rugby title in its various guises a record 7 times, 4 of them in their home stadium in Christchurch. They were close to title no. 8 last year despite not playing a single game in Christchurch - a testament to the spirit and toughness of the players which has lived on despite continual retirements and injuries.
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| Canterbury and the Ranfurly Shield... again! |
Canterbury may have lost this game to their eternal rivals, Auckland 28-23 but it was still a winner at the full time whistle in what is still regarded as the greatest provincial rugby game ever witnessed in New Zealand. In fact, many credit this game to be the one that kicked off modern rugby as we know it today. The crowd of 52,000 at Lancaster Park is still the largest ever for a provincial game and is unlikely to be surpassed any time soon.
Steve Gurney
Perhaps it's because the Speights Coast-to-Coast is not a standard multisport event that Steve Gurney doesn't quite get the credit he deserves despite being champion 9 times but Christchurch-born Gurney is still a legend regardless and memories of him crossing the line at New Brighton Beach have become part of Christchurch sporting folklore.
In memory of the 185 who died as a result of the Christchurch earthquake on 22 February 2011.
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