The 2024 PNG Air National Athletics Track and Field Championship began on Thursday, December 5th, and will continue today (December 6th) until Saturday (December 7th) at the Sir John Guise Stadium.
Over 300 athletes representing various associations across the country have converged in the nation’s capital to vie for national glory. Teams from Kimbe, Lae, Gulf, Oro, NGI, NSI, and many more are here in NCD to compete for the championship.
The first day of the tournament kicked off with the qualifying round of the Open Men’s sprints ranging from 100m, 200m, 400m, and 5,000m, including women’s javelin, and U18 boys long jump. Other divisions will be in full swing today (December 6th).
PNG Athletics President Tony Green gave a rundown on the three-day national event and expressed positivity, despite facing some challenges leading up to the tournament.
“This afternoon (yesterday), we will have a qualifying round for the open men’s sprints - 100m, 200m, 400m, and 5,000m. We have a lot of entries for men, so we are running their event first. For the other divisions, they will start tomorrow (today),” Green said.
“More than 300 athletes will participate in this championship, including their associations such as a group from NSI, NGI, Lae, Sepik, Kimbe, and others.
“There’s always uncertainty over funding. We’ve had a few challenges on that front, but thanks to the support of PNG Air, Team PNG, and PNG Sports Foundation.
“We are looking forward to the next two days of the championship to complete the event on a high note.”
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