MIKAEL Starzynski wasn't expecting to be named one of four recipients of a prestigious Nick Willis scholarship at last weekend's North Island Colgate Games in Palmerston North.
The Masterton 14-year-old, who was competing under the Athletics Wairarapa banner, was obviously happy at having won three gold medals in the grade 14 division -- 400m, 800m and long jump -- but admits to having given little thought to being one of the successful scholarship quartet.
"It came out of the blue, I guess I was so focused on what I was doing that everything else was shut out," he said. "It was a surprise but it's a big deal, I'm rapt."
The Willis scholarship, awarded for the first time in 2013 and named after one of this country's best-performed middle distance athletes, is not only based on outstanding performance but also excellent attitude. Those fortunate enough to earn them receive a contribution towards sports gear, coaching, travel or other resources to help them towards their athletics goals.
Starzynski went into the Palmerston North event optimistic of strong showings in his favourite events, the 400m, and the 800m, and while the windy conditions meant he was unable to register personal bests in either he was "very pleased" with the way things panned out. There was an early hitch in the 800m when he was shut out of a gap in the first 20m and had to work harder than he would have liked to get himself on the pace but while that did affect his finishing kick he still had enough in reserve to hold his challengers at bay.
