Time marches on ... and so does Pam

CRAIG SIMCOX/The Dominion Post

MARKING TIME: Johnsonville's Pam Findlay reflects on 50 years' involvement with marching, having just been honoured for her services to the sport.

Getting girls to stay in time can be a challenge, but the team environment is worth it for Pam Findlay. The Johnsonville resident becomes a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit today, after more than 50 years' service to marching.

During that time she has marched, coached and worked as a promoter and administrator. She has been president, vice-president and treasurer of Marching New Zealand. She is a life-long member of Marching New Zealand, and a life member and patron of Marching Canterbury.

Ms Findlay, 64, who does project work for Workbridge, said she felt surprised but honoured by the recognition.

Giving back to the sport had always been important to her, she said. "It's not just been taking advantage of the sport, it's been putting a lot back in ... I didn't expect any recognition around it."

She began marching in Christchurch aged 12. She loved the team atmosphere, though it was not for everyone, she said.

"It's the challenge of keeping 15 girls on the one line, being able to move and act as a team. Often, when you get a few females in a position, you get a few dissenting voices."

The sport struggled to get members now, because there was a greater number of options for young people, she said.

Both her daughters had been involved in marching, and she hoped her granddaughter – one of four grandchildren – would also take it up one day. "I'd like to see her do that."