Athletics: Bay pupil's 'attitude' earns scholarship

Mitchell Snell receives his Nick Willis Scholarship from Colgate Games ambassador Julian Matthews. PHOTO/Kevin Bills Photography

Hawke's Bay athlete Mitchell Snell has been awarded one of four Nick Willis scholarships at the North Island Colgate Games.

The 14-year-old from Hastings Athletic Club competed in the 800m, 1500m, high jump, long jump and the 4x100m relay at the Colgate Games in Palmerston North on January 8-10.

Athletes who display outstanding performance receive the scholarships. About 1000 athletes, from 7 to 14 years old, competed at the games.

Mitchell was surprised when his name was announced but getting gold in high jump was great too, because it is his favourite discipline.

"But that's probably because it's the one I'm best at," he said.

Awarded for the first time in 2013, the scholarships make a contribution towards sports gear, coaching, travel or other resources to help athletes work towards their goals.

Mitchell said he intended to put his award towards a new pair of shoes and travel.

New Zealand Children's Athletic Association president Brian Cockeram said the awards were not only for great performances but also excellent attitudes.

The level of dedication and talent contestants exhibited last week impressed Colgate NZ general manager John Garside.

The 2016 Colgate Games ambassador and New Zealand champion 1500m runner, Julian Matthews, said it was grounding to see children competing at such an intense level.

Rio Olympics hopeful Matthews said it brought back fond memories of his own time at the games:"It's important to remember that natural talent will only take you so far and that it's your attitude that will take you to the top."