On your marks: Registrations open for 2017 Colgate Games

On your marks: Registrations open for 2017 Colgate Games

Registrations for the 39th annual Colgate Games – New Zealand’s largest National Junior Athletics Championship – are now open.

Thousands of aspiring athletes from all over New Zealand will come together in January for the preeminent athletics competition for children aged 7 to 14 years.

In 2017, the three day-long competition will be held in Hastings from 6 - 8 January and in Invercargill from 13 – 15 January, a change in location from Palmerston North and Nelson in 2016.

Colgate General Manager John Garside says the outstanding performance of young New Zealanders like Eliza McCartney at the Rio Olympics has renewed young people’s interest in athletics.

“For Colgate it’s all about encouraging participation in junior athletics, championing good sportsmanship, and supporting healthy lifestyles."

Mr Garside said Colgate has sponsored the Games since 1978, which means some competitors will be third generation participants, following in the footsteps of their parents and grandparents.

President of the New Zealand Children’s Athletics Association Brian Cockeram says coaches and clubs have worked closely with their athletes to prepare them for the Colgate Games.

“Athletics is accessible for kids, no matter the size of their local club. What’s more, hurdles, high jump, long jump and shot put are great fun for spectators.”

“The Colgate Games are about bringing the athletics community together in the spirit of true sportsmanship. While the focus is on participation, Colgate has provided four scholarships named after Colgate Games alumnus and Olympian Nick Willis, worth $500 each to athletes who display outstanding performance.”

“With so much energy and excitement around athletics in 2016, the Colgate Games are set to be a real highlight on the athletics community’s calendar,” Brian Cockeram said.

To register for the 2017 Colgate Games visit http://nzchildrensathletics.co.nz/

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