Irene Hemsworth has been an integral part of the Maitland sporting landscape for decades.
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Normally a tireless behind the scenes organiser, Hemsworth, 77, will be centre stage on Saturday when she joins 25 others on the Queen’s Baton Relay in Newcastle before it makes its way to the Gold Coast.
She will be joined by Thornton’s Michelle Lawson, Charlie Sanders from Metford and paralympian Maddi Elliott, in what she describes as one of the greatest honours of her life.
As the day came closer, Hemsworth said she realised just how significant it was and what an honour it was to represent so many people who have contributed to Maitland sport over the years.
“I missed out on initial selection but someone pulled out and I got a call to see if I would take part,” she said.
“I’ve been practising carrying a bottle of soda water walking around Lorn Park.”
Her 200m leg starts at 7.58am at the Maritime Memorial on the foreshore.