Proudly sponsored by Nelson Auto Glass Specialists
AMY RUSS
For more than 30 years, Norah Savage has dedicated herself to supporting Special Olympics athletes across the region. Nominated by Claire Smale, on behalf of Special Olympics Nelson, Norah is described as one of the organisation’s most modest and dedicated volunteers.
“Norah Savage is an extremely hard-working Local Legend,” says Claire. “She is the most unassuming and humble volunteer and recently was awarded Life Membership of Special Olympics New Zealand for her decades of service.” This honour reflects the extraordinary impact she has had on countless athletes, families, and fellow volunteers.
Norah’s involvement has touched almost every corner of the organisation. Over the years she has volunteered at school athletics and swimming events, coached ten pin bowling, assisted with indoor bowls, athletics and bocce, and supported athletes at regional, national and international level. She has represented Nelson as a coach at multiple National Games, including events in Palmerston North, Christchurch, Dunedin and Wellington, and was also selected as a coach for the 2010 Asia Pacific Games in Brunei.
Alongside coaching, Norah has contributed behind the scenes through ribbon days, travelling teams, committee work and training programmes focused on disability support and sport development. She has also served on the Athletes Committee since its formation in the early 2000s. Although poor health now prevents her from travelling, Norah’s legacy within the community remains immense. Her patience, kindness and unwavering commitment have helped create opportunities and confidence for generations of athletes.
“I thoroughly enjoy volunteering,” says Norah. “The sportspeople are so supportive of each other no matter the outcome. The official Special Olympics athlete oath is ‘Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.’” This statement emphasises that personal effort, determination, and trying your hardest are just as important as crossing the finish line first.
Sometimes local legends are the people who work quietly in the background for years, never asking for attention. Norah Savage is one of those people.
