Athletics: Big field at junior games

Julian Matthews says he cannot wait to see the athletic talent of New Zealand's youngsters.

The 2016 Colgate Games, New Zealand's national junior athletics championship for children aged 7 to 14, have received more than 2000 entrants from up and down the country, with 379 from the greater Wellington region, including 27 from Wairarapa.

The North Island Colgate Games, to be held at the Manawatu Community Athletics Track in Palmerston North from January 8 to 10, will have 16 young athletes wearing the Athletics Wairarapa colours and eight from Wairarapa Track and Field. At the South Island Colgate Games, to be held at Saxton Oval, Nelson, from January 15 to 17, there will be two participants from Athletics Wairarapa and one from Wairarapa Track and field.

Colgate New Zealand general manager John Garside said he was thrilled to see such a high level of overall participation.

"The Colgate Games have been bringing sporting children and their proud parents together for many years. It's wonderful to be able to work with the NZCAA and give thousands of aspiring young athletes the opportunity to showcase their talents.

"The two events, this year in Palmerston North and Nelson, are a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the hard work among our aspiring athletes."

The 2016 Colgate Games ambassador and New Zealand champion 1500m runner Julian Matthews said he was excited to check out the sporting talent on offer at this year's games.

"I remember when I competed at the Colgate Games, it was the most nervous I had ever been, but having the opportunity to compete against a great calibre of athletes, really prepared me for my professional sporting career today."

Matthews, who is aiming for the Olympics in 2016 after competing in the 2015 IAFF world championships and the 2014 Commonwealth Games, says the Colgate Games provide great competition and it's vital for young athletes to experience the competitive atmosphere.

"It's also important to realise that it's not always about winning."

As well as medal glory, Nick Willis Scholarships are on offer to athletes who have outstanding performances throughout the Colgate Games. The scholarship gives recipients funds to put towards sports gear, coaching, travel and other resources.

Nathan Stirling from Lower Hutt, and Tessa Hunt, from Wellington Harriers, won scholarships last year.