Surprising hobbies of New Zealand sports stars

Although we may be enjoying some fantastic New Zealand action in the Rugby World Cup, it seems that some of our nation’s sporting stars may have a few interesting extra-curricular activities. So when they’re not on the pitch, here are some of the top ways that our sporting heroes let off steam.

All Blacks rugby

Many of the world’s rugby players fear our infamous All Blacks who are renowned for their aggressive playing and phenomenal endurance. But many would be surprised to find that champion half-back Aaron Smith was previously a hairdresser which may be one of the most unlikely activities we could find for such a brutal sport.

Similarly, although many of us will have fond memories of Ryan Crotty due to his match-winning try in the 2013 47-29 defeat of Australia, few of us will have realised the player is a top video-gamer. And with top under-20 player Josh Townsend reputedly being something of a poker aficionado, it is thought that the two could team up and play a few rounds of video poker courtesy of the Lucky Nugget Casino site that could offer a perfect mix of computer gaming and online gambling for these rugby stars.

Black Caps cricket

 

With the upcoming series in November against Australia providing our cricket stars with more than enough reason to hit the training nets, it’s important that they also get to unwind before the main event.

Whilst our nation’s more renowned stars such as Sir Richard Hadlee may have settled down to enjoy the more genteel arts of gardening, it seems that the current generation enjoy a few cooler hobbies. Star batsman Kane Williamson apparently likes nothing better than hitting the beach and playing guitar, whilst captain Brendon McCullum is clearly looking to the future with the establishment of his own top-class horse racing stable.

New Zealand athletics

Although Nick Willis may be more famous for his middle-distance running exploits that saw him win gold at the 2006 Commonwealth Games and silver at the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing, it seems that he’s recently been exploring other high-paced activities.  In particular, it’s the concept of speed golf that has energised this famous athlete, with the activity providing him with the perfect level of concentration for an afternoon’s relaxation.

And whilst we may know Valerie Adams more for her awesome shot-putting power, she’s recently overcome injury by taking up the far less strenuous activity of cycling.  Surely it can’t be long before she combines the two sports?