SPORTSVIEW with Gerard Walsh

DON'T wonder what if, get in and order some Gold Coast Commonwealth Games tickets by May 22.

I remember back in 1982 I missed out on my No.1 choice for Brisbane, the final day of athletics for all the relays and the closing ceremony. But I couldn't regret not being there, my number didn't drop out in the draw.

I ended up with some midweek tickets for the athletics and saw Warwick athlete Don Wright win a bronze medal in hurdles.

The last time we had the Games in Queensland, our area won a medal and it is a distinct possibility again. Just remember if you are getting tickets to watch Matthew Denny, he could be in hammer as well as discus.

Other Southern Downs games medal chances include netballer Laura Geitz if she makes a comeback and past Scots PGC student Demi Hayes who is now in the Australian team in sevens rugby and a great chance to play at the Gold Coast.

Ask the young ones what they want to see, basketball gets a tick in our home.

Boxer shows determination galore

ROSE City Boxing Club member Jacko McMahon has recorded another interstate win, this time in State of Origin in Adelaide.

He was representing Queensland for a fifth time; I would have settled for once in even one sport.

It never ceases to amaze me to see the dedication of some athletes in this area and Jacko is up there with the best of them.

Reminds me of driving past Father Ranger Oval on a Christmas Day in the 1990s when Brett O'Farrell was joining the Melbourne Storm and he was dragging a tyre around the oval to build up his shoulder strength.

Jacko and Brett, who went on to play NRL, both have the same determination.