Giving it his best shot

• Published date: 18 November 2021
• Publication title: Southland Express

The Diabetes New Zealand John McLaren Youth Scholarship would provide him with the finance required for him and a parent to travel to the meeting.

“It basically means it gives me a shot at the biggest athletic competition in all of New Zealand.”

Less time would be spent fundraising for the $6000-$7000 a year annual costs associated with competing outside of Southland.

William’s mother, Rachel, said the travel and accommodation costs often placed additional financial demands on athletes and their families. However, in the Robertsons’ case, costs were doubled as he still needed a parent to accompany him to assist with his care.

He was better able to focus on the competition while the second person monitored his physical health and assisted with meals.

The Diabetes NZ John McLaren Youth scholarships seek to encourage young New Zealanders with diabetes to achieve their goals despite the continual daily challenges they faced.

Since March 2021, Robertson holds the Southland under-14 record for 100m and 200m sprint — shattering the...