A lot has changed in the sport of swimming over the past 50 years. But, amongst it all Sanda Burrow's commitment and passion for the sport has remained constant. Like everyone in our community, we're incredibly proud to see her recognised with a Kings Sevice Medal for services to our sport.
Mrs Sandra Burrow has dedicated more than 50 years to swimming as a coach, manager, club administrator and technical official.
Mrs Burrow joined the Mount Roskill Swimming Club in 1959 as a swimmer and taking on roles which she has maintained since. She coached at the club for 17 years, serving as the Development Coach between 1992 and 2000, and as Head Coach between 2000 and 2006. She was a committee member of the Club for 24 years from 1982, serving as Club Captain and managing the swim teams attending New Zealand Championship meets. She has been the Head Coach of Central City Swim Club since 2006, supporting her club members at swim meets, championships, multi-day meets around New Zealand, and various championships held in Australia. Under her leadership her swim members have broken more than 150 Auckland and more than 30 New Zealand swimming records across 24 years. She was a member of the Auckland Centre Judges Panel between 1982 and 1995 and served as the Chief Judge for two years, becoming Assistant Controller of TISCO Meetings in 1982, holding the position for ten years. She was a long-standing member of the Auckland Awards Committee and a member of the Auckland Coaches Group Committee until 2023. Mrs Burrows coached at the 2016 Rio Olympics and at the Youth Commonwealth Games in Trinidad and Tobago in 2023.
On behalf of our entire community - thank you for your years of service and commitment to our sport Sandra.
