Two Central marching teams shined their boots and stepped in time in the 30th national leisure marching event in Wellington on March 24 -25. 

For the Central Pioneers (CP) the event had extra significance as it was dedicated to a life member of New Zealand Marching, Eileen Pratt.  

The CP includes the Central App director Vicki McLean, her two sisters and her mother.

Sonya, Tracey, Vicki and Margaret McLean

Vicki said her grandmother Eileen Pratt, who died last year aged 101, was an announcer for many years.

She was well known in the marching community for her trademark voice and dedication to the sport, serving as president of the Otago centre, and vice president of the national marching association, among other roles. 

“The team, which was set up by mum, was about to fold, but for one last march in honour of Nana [Eileen] my sisters and I joined in to help.”

Previous CP coach and leader Dawn McIntosh was coaxed back to march and she recruited her two sisters (from Dunedin) to join.

Jan Fraser, another long term CP marcher from Alexandra, stayed to help manage the team.

Former coach of champion teams, Christine Bell, who retired to Alexandra, was also called upon. 

“It was difficult to train together, and build that team culture when all from different areas, however we managed to march as one team in honour of loved ones past, who were life members of New Zealand Marching,” Vicki said.

The full team of ten marched well in their tribute event, she said.

“We've done it, as promised to Nana for one season. We wished she could have seen us all together, but we knew she was watching and would have been proud.” 

Cromwell’s Gate Leisure Marching team in uniform

The Gate Leisure Marchers (Cromwell) coached by Deborah Reese and led by Kathleen Dundass also participated.

The event included 75 teams and approximately a thousand people. It was held at Wellington’s waterfront TSB Arena and hosted by the capital’s team the Avalon Supremes. 

After the marching a neon themed party was held in the arena. ‘The Relatives’ band took to the stage at 7.30pm and played until 11.00pm. 

Cromwell’s marching team enjoyed the social side of the event 

Leisure marching involves a march past parade, individual team routines and then a maze march with all the teams on the floor at the same time. 

The sport is non-competitive and is all about fitness, fun and friendship. The age of marchers ranges from 42 to 92 years old. 

Invercargill is set to host the 2024 nationals.

If you’re interested in joining the Central Pioneers, go to the Central App Group Clubs button. Find more information on the sport here.