Masterton Intermediate student Stevie Paine was an easy winner of her grade at the New Zealand primary schools cross country championships held at Hanmer Springs, near Christchurch, this week.
Competing in the year 7 section Paine was a class above her rivals, winning her 3km event by 10secs.
Coach Mark Harris was
not at all surprised by Paine's success, saying she had the potential to be a star performer on both the track and over cross country for many years to come.
"She is very, very promising but it is important to nurture her talent & at the age she is, enjoyment is very much a key factor.
"That's where the focus lies now, just making sure that everything is done with a smile on the face," he said.
Also competing at Hanmer Springs were Molly Creagh of Lakeview School and Tom Quinn of St Mary's School in Carterton and they also did well, Creagh placing eighth in the girls year 8 event and Quinn, who had a fall, 13th in the boys year 7 race.
