Renowned rowing athlete Mahé Drysdale, adorned with two Olympic gold medals and five world rowing championship titles, is contemplating a new challenge: a bid for a seat on the Tauranga City Council.
In an exclusive interview with the Bay of Plenty Times, the sports icon revealed his deliberation over participating in Tauranga's upcoming council election in July, coinciding with the conclusion of the term of Government-appointed commissioners.
Yesterday, Drysdale graced the 10th anniversary celebration of the Sir Bob Owens Retirement Village in Bethlehem, a poignant event for him as the village pays homage to his grandfather, a former mayor of the city and a pivotal figure in the development of the Port of Tauranga.
At 45 years old, Drysdale hinted at an imminent decision, suggesting that clarity might emerge "within the next few days," possibly accompanied by further insights into his potential candidacy. With nominations for the election slated to open on April 26, the anticipation surrounding Drysdale's next move continues to mount.
A product of Tauranga Boys' College and now based in Cambridge, Drysdale's illustrious career boasts not only Olympic glory but also seven national championship titles and five prestigious New Zealand Sportsman of the Year accolades.
Accompanied by his wife Juliette and their three young children at the village celebration, Drysdale's potential venture into local governance marks a significant shift from the waters of competitive rowing to the currents of civic responsibility. As the community awaits his decision, Tauranga's political landscape brims with excitement and anticipation for what could be a transformative addition.