Ross holds shield after draw

After 60 years the Woodham Shield — symbol of South Westland rugby supremacy — came full circle yesterday as the two teams to first battle it out for the coveted trophy met again, and with the same result.
At its inception in 1950, Ross beat Harihari for the shield, donated by the Woodham family in memory of George Woodham, who was killed in a hunting accident a year earlier.
History repeated itself yesterday when, despite a 3-3 tie, Ross clinched the grassroots rugby prize for the season. A week earlier Ross beat a combined Haast, Fox and Franz Josef side.
It is the first time in 13 years Ross has secured the shield, after Whataroa dominated it for the past decade.
More than 300 supporters — including Isla Woodham, sister-in-law of the competition’s namesake — lined the Ross rugby field for the finale.
Mrs Woodham, 81, said that after 60 years the shield still meant a lot to the family, who had never imagined it would become such a significant South Westland event.
“We never, ever visualised it (the competition) would last so long. There is still the same enthusiasm and dedication as there was on the first day.”
Ross Rugby Club manager Ray Manera said his team’s victory would be well celebrated.
“I know a lot of the boys have the day off tomorrow.”
Three shield challenges are held each year, with the losing side having to surrender the shield immediately.
The four Woodham Shield teams are Ross, Harihari, Whataroa and Franz, and Fox and Haast.