The Intercity Premier Three Championship and a fourth consecutive Kuripuni Tavern Classic title are the targets for the Giants softballers on a busy weekend at South Park.
Giants are hosting their popular “President’s Grade” tournament starting at 10 am today, and Giants Red are to play their Premier Three final against Paremata-Plimmerton, which was scheduled for December but was deferred because of wet weather.
With most of the Reds involved in both teams, that means a hectic two days for the players, who could have to play five games. The Giants team for the Kuripuni Tavern Classic, though, is boosted with the inclusion of some players from the club’s premier two Giants Blue side, including veteran pitcher Justin ‘Chunky’ Karaitiana.
Giants get the ball rolling in the Kuripuni Tavern Classic with the first game against Tōtara Park at 10 am, followed by Manawatū team Brawlers at 1 pm, and then the Premier Three final at 4 pm.
Giants Red player Chris Feary is uncertain if playing the third game in a short space of time is an advantage or disadvantage.
“We had a comfortable win against Paremata the last time we met, but they’re a good
team, too,’ Feary said.
“We always go in with the thinking we’re going to win it all, and it will be tough after two games out there, but we’re warmed up, and Paremata-Plimmerton are coming off quite a long break.”
The Reds are without one of their big hitters, Willie Waitere, for today’s games, and Feary said he is a big loss not only for his batting but also for his experience in the outfield. He is expected back for tomorrow’s games.
Despite Waitere’s absence, Giants Red boast a strong batting lineup with the likes of Gordon Wilmshurst, Terry Waitere, and Matt Kawana capable of sending the ball over the fence.
Should The Reds lift the championship trophy there will be little time for celebration with their final round-robin game in the Kuripuni Tavern Classic against Steelers to be played at 10 am tomorrow.
The top teams from the two pools will playoff in tomorrow afternoon’s final.
Cardinals, Dodgers, Stokes Valley, and Demons make up the other pool.
