The new home of sport in Christchurch is once again living up to its reputation as the ultimate community hub, bringing together 191 Canterbury and West Coast schools for the Primary Schools Athletics Championships today run by Primary Sports Canerbury.

After welcoming 100,000 participants and spectators in its first 12 months, Ngā Puna Wai today sees 1,700 Year 5 to 8 students competing across more than 90 track and field events, including the finals.

According to Rebecca, a student from Russley School taking part in the Year 8 long jump, “It’s really nice to be here to see everyone competing, having fun and trying their best.”

Somerfield School Sports Coordinator Sarah Price reflects this enthusiasm, adding: “It’s so exciting to be here using such a fantastic facility. It’s amazing that Christchurch finally has somewhere awesome for all of our enthusiastic athletics kids to use.”

All students taking part today have placed in their school athletics day, advanced to their local Zone competition, and then qualified for the Primary Athletics Championships event held at Ngā Puna Wai.

The Championships bring together the top athletes from all over Canterbury, with schools represented ranging from Ashburton to Hanmer Springs and the West Coast.

Hillview Christian School is “host school” this year, providing student helpers to the organisers throughout the day.                                                                                                

“We know that the health and wellbeing of our tamariki relies upon keeping active,” says Sport Canterbury Chief Executive Julyan Falloon.

“Events like this are important to families across the region, as they motivate our tamariki to keep active, set goals and enjoy participating with friends.”

Having a world-class venue, all-weather track and specialised throws area adds to the excitement for Canterbury kids.

“They began life in a quake-affected landscape and now benefit from the city’s rebuild and facilities conceived with their welbeing in mind.”

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