McCaw uplifts young rugby fans

Otago Daily Times

2 days ago

He has lifted the Webb Ellis Trophy twice and more silverware than you can count, but bringing smiles to Wānaka's biggest rugby fans gives Richie McCaw a sky-high feeling.
The former All Black captain was the pilot of a memorable flight for four of Wānaka's people with disabilities from the Mint Charitable Trust yesterday morning.
McCaw flew All Blacks fans Eli Larose, 14, Ewan Little, 22, Lachlan Davison, 19, and Reuben Beston, 14, to the top of Coromandel Peak to chuck around a rugby ball at 1200m.
"This is the first time I have done something like this with the helicopter," McCaw said.
"With me being based down here now, they asked if I could come [and] take the team for a ride and I am more than happy to do that.
"Over the years I have done a few things like this [charitable causes] to give people a smile.
"It is amazing that with a little bit of a time out of your day, you can make a difference."
McCaw and his wife Gemma, along with their three daughters, moved to Upper Clutha from Christchurch at the end of last year.
Mr Davison said he had been in a helicopter before, but never with McCaw.
He was a huge All Blacks fan and said it felt "pretty cool" to have him as his pilot.
Reuben said he was excited to say hello to his biggest rugby hero, and new local celebrity.
"I have seen him at the supermarket, but I have never said hi to him — I was too scared.
"He is my favourite All Black."
McCaw said he had not been flying as frequently as he would like, but would not mind getting back in the cockpit.
"I have been doing a little bit less lately as I have been getting myself sorted down here.
"I am keen to keep flying so I am still working that one out."
He had taken his children in the helicopter a few times.
"The first time I took them up they all fell asleep — the vibrations put them to sleep."
Yesterday morning's flight was a rewarding one for everyone.
"Whether you're flying or whatever, when kids get excited doing whatever it is, it's great.
"There are obviously a couple of excited fellas here, and they love the Crusaders."
He and the family were enjoying the change of pace and environment in the South.
"We have holidayed here for a long time.
"With all the outdoors ... the kids have a bit of space [and] it suits us well."
The flight was organised by charity Uplift in Kind which aims to brings hope and joy to children and families facing illness or hardship by giving them the unforgettable experience of flight.
With the support of aviation partner Wānaka Helicopters, the flight was all fee free for parents and children.