At six-and-a-half feet tall and weighing in at 160 kilograms, 48-year-old Patrick Muagututia is an undeniable presence on the rugby field.
As the leader of Auckland’s Richmond Bulldogs Masters Rugby League team, the man mountain commands respect each time he steps over the sideline.
And despite a back strain on the first day of the 2024 Pan Pacific Masters Games tournament, Patrick’s resolve is unwavering.
“A little trouble accelerating, but nothing a bit of Voltaren can’t fix,” he said with a slightly menacing grin.
“I’m here to play.”
The Bulldogs have made the journey to Mudgeeraba in force, fielding two teams – a competition side led by Patrick and a social team – bringing with them an abundance of Kiwi spirit.
The tournament boasts 14 teams in total, all competing under an unrelenting Gold Coast sun.
And even as the temperature soars to 32 degrees Celsius – almost double what their Auckland home is seeing this week – the Bulldogs are undeterred.
“We know how important it is to keep hydrated,” Patrick said, gesturing to the team tent, scattered with chilly bins and jandals.
“Both teams are gunning for medals, so we’re giving it everything we’ve got.”
Representing a club with over a century of proud history, Patrick and his team are here to add to the Richmond Bulldogs’ recent achievements, including a historic premier division championship this year – their first in 44 years.
“The competition’s tough here; we competed back in 2018, but with Covid, this is our first Games since then.
“Fingers crossed we’ll come away with a medal or two to cap off a great year for our club.” Patrick said.
