Athletics NZ is taking the meet to the street

Athletics New Zealand is flipping the script on traditional athletics meets on Wednesday 6th March, with Olympic and Commonwealth medallists Tom Walsh and Eliza McCartney, along with a host of top New Zealand and International shot put and pole vault athletes, competing in the streets of Christchurch.

The Lincoln University Street Athletics Festival will take place in the Christchurch Casino Carpark and is a free public event.

Athletics New Zealand Chief Executive Peter Pfitzinger said this will be the first time both street pole vault and shot put have been hosted together in the city. “Crowds can witness the skill, power and athleticism of the some of the world’s best athletes from just metres away. There is truly nothing like it.”

Acting Vice-Chancellor Professor Bruce McKenzie said the University was very pleased to have the opportunity to partner with Athletics New Zealand and bring the Lincoln University Street Athletics festival to Christchurch, and added that the University is also a supporting partner of the 2019 Jennian Homes New Zealand Track & Field Championships, which will be hosted in Christchurch on March 08-10.

He said Lincoln has a strong sport and recreation programme as well as a high-performing sports scholarship programme so there were natural connections there.

“But the events also speak to what we do at Lincoln, of growing futures and opportunities, and our students themselves, through striving to achieve and perform on the highest stages, like world champion shot-putter Tom Walsh.”

The Christchurch community is encouraged to head along and take in the festival vibe. There will be food trucks and drinks, giveaways, music and family-friendly activities. Enjoy a free evening of athletics in the heart of the city.

The athletes will be in Christchurch warming up for the Jennian Homes New Zealand Track & Field Championships, which will take place from 8th to 10th March Ngā Puna Wai Sports Hub, Christchurch.

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