Today we were invited back for a second day to the ASB Classic Tennis Tournament in Auckland. The tournament director Brenda Perry has been so kind and today, amongst her incredibly hectic schedule, she introduced us to another world-class player, who was eager to hold the torch.

So it was with great pleasure that we met with Elena Vesnina from Russia who had just won her second round match in an upset win over the tournaments 6th seed. Elena is ranked 76 in the world and this is her first visit to New Zealand.

"It is very green," she said, looking out at the beautiful oak trees that surround the tennis centre. As I got more into explaining about the World Harmony Run she was taken back when she saw the photo of former Russian President Mikhail Gorbachev with his wife Raisa holding the torch. She bent in for a closer look, and then saw Mother Teresa’s photo and I was able to tell her that she was good friends with the founder of the World Harmony Run, Sri Chinmoy.

Elena Vesnina from Russia

We then spoke about the psychology of sport and the importance of staying positive and determined as in life and not being afraid to lose. Then it was time to hold the torch and take a few photos in the glorious Auckland sunlight. Elena then mentioned that she needed to eat before her next match later in the day, so as someone who knows the joys of food we said farewell and thankyou for our inspiring meeting.

Later in the day we had the chance to get a photo with Television One sports presenter Toni Street, who has the really tough job of spending sun-filled days at the tennis. She interviewed us a few days ago and was very nice and positive about the whole event.

Toni Street

– Budhsamudra Knox

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