Commonwealth Games: Athletics given pass mark

It was hardly as successful as cycling but New Zealand's other twin pillar at the Commonwealth Games was given a pass mark from its top coach.

Athletics NZ high performance director Scott Goodman said he was pleased with the performance of the majority of his team, though there were exceptions.

A bronze medal from Nick Willis in the 1500m at yesterday's final session at Hampden Park saw athletics conclude its efforts in Glasgow with five medals - one gold, two silver and two bronze.

That took to 130 the sport's total medal count across 20 Commonwealth Games, keeping it well clear in top spot but with cycling closing fast.

Fourteen medals across the track, mountain and road - with the road races to come - means cycling has now accounted for 96 medals in Commonwealth Games history, opening up some breathing room over swimming in third (81).

Though the upward swing cycling is enjoying may mean athletics' total will soon be in its sights, Goodman thinks the traditional powerhouse has some life in it yet.

He said the feats of Valeria Adams and Willis were obvious highlights but the standout result was Zane Robertson's bronze in the 5000m, one of many impressive efforts from young athletes at these Games.

"There were some mixed results," Goodman said. "Some of the younger athletes that we hoped would compete well have, and we've got a few others who I wouldn't say I was totally satisfied.

"Tom Walsh (silver in shot put) was very good again. He's clearly someone for Rio we have right on track. I was pretty pleased with Siositina (Hakeai, fourth in shot put) - she didn't get a PB here but she threw quite well and consistently. And Julia Ratcliffe (silver in hammer throw) was a bit of a standout as well."

Among those with whom he was less impressed was Jacko Gill, the precocious shot put talent who has struggled making the transition from junior competition to the senior ranks.

After breaking onto the scene at 15 with a number of record-beating throws, Gill - still only 19 - finished 11th in a disappointing Games.

"Clearly he's someone who we want to be on track," Goodman said. "He can be very competitive and we'll do whatever we can to try and support him.

"There was some really exciting stuff and I suppose a few guys who didn't quite get what they wanted."