Hi all,
Over the past weekend a contingent of 18 of our members travelled down to Christchurch to compete for the 'Joynt Scroll', New Zealand's oldest and most prestigious debating prize. It was a five round prepared competition with some fierce debates.
While all our teams did well and got some scores on the board particular mention should go to Auckland One (of Akif Malik, Max Harris and Glenn Riddell) who made the semi finals before being knocked out in a close 2-1 split decision!
Special mention should also go to:
Max Harris, who was named 'Captain of the New Zealand Universities Prepared Debating Team'
Craig Riddell, who received a 'Promising Speaker' award.
Stephanie Thompson, who also received a 'Promising Speaker' award.
Over the weekend we also sent down three trainee adjudicators who were assessed against the national standard. I am pleased to report that all three of our trainees accredited at a national level (which is impressive given that only four people accredited overall). I would therefore like to congratulate Neeharika Chowdhary and Dan White who join the accredited adjudicator ranks and now have a great excuse to come away on more tournaments with us to have a good time whilst helping out the Society.
Last but not least our attendance at tournaments would not be possible without the sacrifice our already accredited adjudicators make to judge on our behalf. Thanks go to Jordan Ward, Gareth Richards (from Victoria) and David Middlemiss (who was helpful enough to attend for us while back in NZ on holiday from the UK).
The tournament was therefore a very successful one and a good time was had by all who attended (particularly George Minton) and will go down as one of the more enjoyable Joynt Scrolls in recent memory.
Finally don't forget that the first Thursday back (the 18th of September) we will have BOTH the SGM and the Oratory Competition. Remember the purpose of the SGM is to amend our Constitution, a copy of both the old and new versions of which can be found partway down the front page of our website. It should be an epic night to remember so keep it free. Then the next Thursday keep the AGM in your calendar where will will do exciting things like pass motions and elect the 2009 Exec!
Hope the break is treating everyone well,
Brad
