Young athletes of all abilities are set to take centre stage at the South Island Colgate Games in Nelson later this month.
Almost 1000 youngsters, aged between seven and 14 who are members of affiliated clubs, will be competing at the age-grade event which Athletics Tasman is hosting at the Saxton Athletics Arena from 15-18 January.
The annual games began in 1978 and were last held in the region five years ago.
Organising committee chair Nicola Hodges says planning started back in April.
“It’s a big job. I am lucky to have key local athletics figures Phil Costley and Anni Pfitzinger on the organising committee. Phil gets things done while Anni’s knowledge is really cool,” declares Nicola.
Anni was involved with staging The Spectacle festival of running last month.
“We went to last year’s games in Christchurch, so we had an idea of what was coming but it is always bigger once you get involved,” maintains Nicola.
Arguably the biggest challenge for organisers has been confirming officials and volunteers to help with events, especially given their timing during school holidays.
“Whether it is just rolling a discus back, raking a long jump pit, selling merchandise or tickets at the gate. There are options for everyone to help out,” Nicola says.
Visiting officials will be housed at nearby Garin College where Phil is a teacher.
About 200 of the 950 athletes will be competing from the five local clubs – Nelson, Richmond, Motueka, Tākaka and Marlborough.
Nicola confirms that highlights the growth of the sport in the region.
“It is a quality level of competition you don’t get locally because of numbers. There is something there for everyone with these games. It is an awesome experience for a kid,” insists Nicola, who still remembers being a Colgate competitor herself.
Now it is her 11-year-old son Flynn fronting up in the 800m and 1500, high jump and long jump. Medals will be awarded for the 10 to 14-year-olds while for the younger brigade, the focus is on participation.
The four-day event will start with an evening march past for athletes on Thursday week and then competition begins at 8am the following day.
