Whakatāne Athletics Club hosted more than 70 young athletes at an open day event last Tuesday aimed at promoting athletics and showcasing what the club has to offer.

With a focus on fun and friendly participation, the usual emphasis on time and placings was replaced by smiles, engaging activities, and happy parents as children were guided through new athletic experiences.

The event marks a fresh approach by the club to encourage greater participation among tamariki. Pre-event enquiries and registrations were strong, with even more children joining on the day.

Athletics volunteer Chirese Viljoen was grateful for the public’s support.
“It was a great success. The turnout was fantastic with many parents in attendance and even more tamariki participating. With a total number of 92 registrations, we were thrilled many joined in on the day without registering beforehand, but going forward, registrations will be required for participation,” said Viljoen.

The programme has been designed with children in mind to ensure they have ample opportunity to learn, train, and grow before moving into scoring and competitive events.
“The enthusiasm and engagement from the children last week was heartening. We also had an open day T-shirt promotion, which was a hit,” said Viljoen.

To complement the programme aimed at the young starting grades, the athletic club offers programmes for several age groups and disciplines including Monday night trainings at 3:45pm for ages six to 15 years, under the watchful eye of trainer Peter Blackwood.