The sights and sounds of track and field athletics will ring out across Ngā Puna Wai Sports Hub next weekend, marking the return of summer sport in the city for many. 

On Saturday 14 October, athletes of all ages and abilities will have the opportunity to give athletics a go, and for others, the first opportunity to compete on the opening day of the Canterbury Athletics season. 

The day will kick off with the children’s competition, made up of 13 clubs including two new clubs, providing even more coverage across Christchurch, AWATEA Athletics (Wigram/Halswell) and the Celebration Lions Athletics Club (Wainoni). The seniors will then be competing from 1.30pm.  

Sport Canterbury’s Partnership and Activation Manager at Ngā Puna Wai Sports Hub, Katrina Mansfield looks forward to this event every year, as an exciting day that marks the turn of the seasons.  

“This will be the sixth year in a row that we welcome this opening athletics day to our facility.” 

“The presence of New Zealand international athletes like high jumper, Hamish Kerr gives the young athletes something to aspire to, seeing the level that is possible for Cantabrians.” 

People of all ages, abilities, races, and genders are welcome in athletics states Ian Thomas, General Manager of Canterbury Athletics. 

“The principles of athletics, in terms of running, jumping, throwing actually have huge benefits to those who play a winter sports like netball, football, rugby for example.” 

“Having a summer sport in athletics can keep you active, but also enhance certain aspects of your game when you return to winter sports.” 

Thomas adds that what Ngā Puna Wai Sports Hub provides athletes in Canterbury, “makes it Christchurch’s best kept secret.” 

The children’s athletics runs from 9am – 1.30pm; those wishing to take part can join their local club online here: Clubs | Athletics Canterbury 

The seniors run in the afternoon from 1.30pm – 4.30pm; those wishing to take part can do so by registering on the day, with more information to be found here: Track & Field | Athletics Canterbury