HERE THE HELL I AM



I'll take up my story from circa 1973 when I had the first of 3 back operations that kept me out of the game for about 5 years. I returned to play at the Gabba in grade Z5 and worked upwards again until the back couldn't handle the strain and I decided it was best to quit fixtures. I got involved in the administration of squash at secondary school level, being President of the state body from 1983-85 and Secretary from 1986-96. I was also the coach of the state junior girls team (they were the only ones I could beat) from 1986-94).

In 2000 I had a recurrence of severe back pain and being unable to stay on my feet for more than half an hour at a time, took the sick leave and long service owing and retired. The doctors said I had arachnoiditis, which is a disease of the nerves surrounding the spine and that I could expect the pain to worsen, eventually leading to a wheelchair. I started a pain management course. In 2003, the pain left me suddenly for no apparent reason and I've been ok since. However, it makes you aware of just how fragile life is and I'm making hay while the sun shines, mindful of the fact that it may not last.

I have joined a square dance club and my partner (strictly for dancing only) and I travel around to about 3 dances a week. We have been to state and national conventions and to Canada for a world convention. I also tutor overseas people in English. Many of my students have been Koreans, and in 2007 I travelled to Korea to catch up with them and had a whale of a time. Through U3A, I have studied Italian and now teach 2 classes in the subject.

From 1980-1995 I owned a number of horses with my Uncle, The best was Jayardi who won 4 races in Brisbane and 2 in Rockhampton, Famezz won the Yepoon Cup. Kleppera had 4 starts for 4 wins in Rockhampton, and at the time held the track record for 1200M, We were going to bring him to Brisbane, but he was killed in a thunderstorm while spelling. My Uncle died in 1995 and I haven't been in horse ownership since.

Squash is now the last thing on my mind, but reading through the site bought back a flood of happy memories and made me want to wind back the clock.

Kev. Mahoney.