The BNZ Breakers are set to record a significant milestone when they play their 100th game at Spark Arena on Thursday 16 January.
As the team rack up their century at the iconic venue, in attendance will be a VIP guest making his debut with 101-year-old Colin Thorne attending his first ever live basketball game.
Colin, who has become a legend in his own right, will be treated to a courtside experience to celebrate his 101st birthday just two days before the game.
At the age of 64, Colin started running marathons. He’s now completed 50 of them, plus over 100 half marathons for good measure. He clocked a blistering 3:18 marathon time at the age of 69.
By his 90s, Colin was still going strong, earning medals and becoming the oldest parkrunner in the world to hit 100 parkruns at 98. Now, at 101 years young, he’s still lacing up his shoes to stay active.
And this week, Colin’s trading the running shoes for the basketball court at Spark Arena.
“I am super excited for Thursday being my first ever live game - as long as I am not needed on court because I’m too short, but of course I will play if the team needs me!,” he joked.
Colin sent a message to the Breakers, who are coming off a last second loss to Melbourne United on Monday night.
“Always keep positive, focused, and motivated. The supporters will stay behind the team and follow you - we all win some and lose some. The results will change, especially after I give them a stir-up on Thursday!.”
While the Breakers’ 100th game at Spark Arena is a chance to reflect on the club’s journey, it’s also a perfect match with Colin’s own life philosophy - always have a goal.
Whether it’s reaching 200 parkruns or simply staying active, Colin shows that milestones are about more than numbers, they’re about embracing the ride.
When asked about his secret to a long and active life, Colin shared some sage advice.
“Hard work, eating good food, and keeping active. As you get older, have lots of rest, and my faith in the Lord.
“Parkrun has been most important over the past few years and really is just an extension of my prior marathon running days.
“I look forward to parkrun each week; they really are like family to me. I now need a walker for support as I can’t walk or run like I used to, but will keep going until I can’t. I aim to get under 60 minutes each week, but that depends on how I feel, as my body is getting old.”
When the Breakers take the court on Thursday 16 January, they’ll be playing for more than just a win.
They’ll be playing for the fans who’ve cheered them on, the community that’s rallied behind them, and one extraordinary centenarian who’s ready to cheer louder than anyone else.
Here’s to 100 games at Spark Arena, 101 years lived to the fullest, and one unforgettable night on Thursday.
