Source: Radio New Zealand
Hamish Kerr at the Athletics World Championships. © Tsutomu Kishimoto / Photosport 2025
World champion high jumper Hamish Kerr has capped off a successful year with the New Zealand Olympic Committee’s highest honour.
Kerr was awarded the Lonsdale Cup for 2025 after a season that delivered the World Championship title in Tokyo with a world‑leading 2.36 metre jump that equalled his New Zealand and Oceania record, as well as the Diamond League crown in Zurich.
Established in 1961, the Lonsdale Cup is reserved for the athlete or team whose impact on Olympic or Commonwealth sport is remarkable in a given year.
It recognises excellence on the field of play and the values shown beyond it: leadership, integrity and service to the sporting whānau.
The Cup’s roll of honour includes Sir Peter Snell, Sir John Walker, Dame Valerie Adams, Dame Lisa Carrington and most recently, Dame Lydia Ko.
Kerr said it was an honour to be acknowledged alongside some of New Zealand’s greatest sportspeople.
“I’m grateful to everyone who has supported me this year, in particular my family, my Athletics NZ whānau and of course the wider support from Kiwis too.
“You just have to look at the past recipients of the Lonsdale Cup to be honoured and humbled, it’s special to follow in the footsteps of so many incredible athletes,” he said.
Athletics NZ chief executive officer Cam Mitchell said Kerr was a leading light for the sport in New Zealand.
“Hamish’s impact goes far beyond the heights he clears in competition, he’s growing and shaping the future of athletics through his example, humility and commitment to our sport. This is a well-deserved celebration of Hamish’s contribution on and off the track.”
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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand
