Praise for Red Cross helpers

The impact of the three first-aid volunteers on the main Round Raro Road Race (RRRR) was immense, according to the Cook Islands Red Cross’ first aid coordinator Oropai Mataroa.

While she had anticipated six volunteers would show up and help out on the morning of the event, Mataroa only ended up with a total of four – including herself – to check on the runners throughout the 31 kilometre race and provide assistance where necessary.

“We normally have lots of volunteers but this time around there was only four of us,” Mataroa said.

“For us at the Red Cross every year we’ve been invited to assist for Round Raro [Road Race]. Normally the weather is hot and humid, but this year was a good run.”

But for Mataroa the assistance from Rescue Fire’s Chris Tianau, Manea Maretapu of the Metservice and Westpac general manager John Paul Wilson was impressive.

“The three guys I had were excellent. For one of them [Tianau] it was their first time doing voluntary first aid work and I was very impressed with him.

“As volunteers you go the extra mile to do extra things.”

Such was Mataroa’s commitment that she went from helping at RRRR to providing first aid assistance at the national club rugby final later that afternoon.

“Luckily there were no major injuries,” Mataroa quipped.

By the time the final whistle blew and the presentations were made, Mataroa was able to go home and relax after a grinding 13-hour shift.

“I think it’s like what Tina [Newport] said, you just get on with it. Even at events sometimes people forget to acknowledge the Red Cross and I wonder, ‘why are we here’.

“I like people. I generally just enjoy people – that’s just the type of person I am.”