To encourage local children to become more active, Hino Distributors supported a visit to Paihiatua Shool by a sponsored Manawatu Turbo rugby player and a Hino 700 series truck.
Hino Distributors employee Tony Pedley, Manawatu Turbo hooker Rob Foreman, and the Hino truck surprised the students last Monday.
The visit is part of the Adopt a Turbo programme, developed by Manawatu Rugby to inspire a stronger relationship between local schools and the Turbos’ team.
The Turbos selected Foreman in 2006, their inaugural year in the ITM Championship. Hino Distributors NZ Ltd’s sponsorship of the number two jersey began the same year.
Children often see the rugby players as role models, during the visit Foreman encouraged the kids to be more active, eat healthier and to get involved in a sport.
He taught the children how to tackle properly, and also read to them, while the Hino 700 Series FS 2844 Air took some students for a ride.
Born in Pahiatua, Foreman’s’ children now attend the primary school. He also started his rugby career in the area, playing for Wairarapa College, Eketehuna and Wairarapa Bush before moving to Varsity Rugby Club.
During the 2014 Turbos’ season, Foreman was recognised for his 100th game while the team celebrated taking out the ITM Championship in a thrilling win against Hawkes’ Bay.
“While our truck brand has national reach, we remain steadfastly loyal and proud of our Manawatu roots,” says Hino NZ’s general manager, Ray Roberts.
“Our sponsorship of the Turbos has been about relationships. Rob is a great asset to our team.”
