Sports enthusiasts, rejoice! It's that electrifying time of the year when the air is thick with the promise of victory and the echoes of cheering crowds. From the rugged battlefields of rugby league, where our Cowboys charge fearlessly into the fray, to the heart-stopping showdowns of the Mackay Cutters on the hallowed turf of BB Print Stadium, the stage is set for an unforgettable season.
Despite the recent heartache of the Cutters' narrow loss to Townsville in the dying moments of the game, their blazing start to the season ignites hope and excitement in every fan's heart.
Last weekend, the iconic Paris Roubaix – famously dubbed the "hell of the North" – had me glued to my seat well past midnight. Keeping pace with the gruelling European cycling classics demands ample doses of coffee the next morning, but it's all worth it for the sheer spectacle of it all.
As the North Queensland athletics season kicks off, I find myself itching to return to the throwers' circle after taking a year off for the arrival of my baby. And tonight, under the dazzling lights of the Crater, the home advantage beckons as our very own Mackay Meteors and Meteorettes kick off their NBL1 campaigns with a fiery determination to conquer their rivals.
In this edition, columnist Rob Kidd delves into the anticipation surrounding the Mackay Meteors and Meteorettes' season opener at the Multisport Stadium, affectionately known as the Crater. Keep an eye out for Todd Blanchfield, a hometown hero set to light up the court with his stellar skills – a testament to the top-tier basketball talent flourishing right here in Mackay.
So, whether you're a seasoned fan or a newcomer to the court, I urge you to experience the magic of live basketball for yourself. Trust me, you won't regret it. And to Karen Blanchfield and family – your support fuels Todd's fire, and we're all grateful for it.
See you courtside!
Amanda
Stay tuned for more basketball highlights on page 24 with Rob Kidd, and dive into all the action in our dedicated sports section on pages 31-36.
