Rookies perform strongly at games

Alexander Campbell Lewis.

The Kaitaia Athletics Club was rapt with the performances of the threeyoung people who competed at the North Island Colgate Games in Hastings earlier this month.

KAC spokeswoman Vanessa Matijevich was particularly impressed by the two rookies at the major meet with more than 1100 children converging on the Regional Sports Park from Friday to Sunday, January 6-8.

"For being so young, the two young[est] ones did amazing for their first Colgate games," she said.

Alexander Campbell Lewis and Phoenix Cassidy, both aged 10, finished in the top half of the field in shotput and discus, and also impressed in their 100m and long jump campaigns in their boys' and girls competitions respectively.

Mateja, Vanessa's daughter, produced her third consecutive medal winning performance, claiming the bonze medal in the discus.

She also placed fourth in the shotput, just missing out on a podium finish after placing a foot out of the circle during one of her throws.

"We're very happy [overall]. It was just an awesome, magical experience for the kids. They achieved all their targets," said Vanessa. The club was delighted with all the supporters and sponsors who got behind the trio's Colgate Games campaign this year.

"Kaitaia was amazing, got right behind us."

Four club members also recently gained their officiating certificates.

Looking ahead, Mateja will continue training as she prepares to represent Kaitaia in the Northland Year 12/13 team which is competing at the inter-provincial athletics championships in Masterton over Easter Weekend.

She will also compete in the Northland junior and youth championships in Whangarei later in the year.

KAC is preparing to resume its weekly Tuesday evening sessions at 5.30pm starting February 7.

The North Island and South Island Colgate Games (staged in Invercargill, from January 13-15) cater to athletes aged from seven to 14, eight age grades in all, who can compete on the track over 60, 100, 200, 400, 800 and 1500m distances, and field event of high jump, long jump, shot put and discus.