South Waikato Supersports hit town

Competitive and team spirits will be out in force during this weekend’s Harveys Real Estate South Waikato Supersports.

A total of 58 competitors will battle over three days in 21 sporting disciplines to find the ultimate super sportsperson.

Kicking off on Friday evening at Strathmore Park, teams of two will share a 200 metre relay, high jump, long jump, discus, shot put and a middle distance relay.

Saturday morning will begin with a swim relay at the pools, followed by speed skating at the Kart Club, and a run bike run relay at the sport’s grounds.

The Tokoroa Gun club will also be hosting clay bird shooting ahead of a climb up Colsons Hill and the Tokoroa Club hosting bowls, darts, and indoor rowing.

There is no let up on Sunday when competitors will gather at the oval in the sport’s grounds to compete in target golf, an obstacle course, ball sport round, archery and a work out of the day.

Competitors will then move over to the axeman’s rink before the day finishes with a mountain bike relay in Cougar Park.

Coordinator Larry Sullivan said while numbers are down on previous years he was pleased by the calibre of entrants and expects a tight, well fought out leader board.

‘‘The whole weekend is a spectator friendly event and offers great viewing in all the arenas,’’ he said.

‘‘Now into its 32nd year the event is a fundraiser for the Supersports Trust which supports and grants funds to local athletes who gain national honours. Over the 32 years the trust has granted over $250,000 dollars to a range of local superstars in a huge range of sports.’’

That includes Tirau based world champion cyclist Jim Mcmurray.

Sullivan said the event was unique to the district and had survived for so long because of the cooperation and support of many local sporting clubs and business.

‘‘The organising committee is very grateful for their ongoing support,’’ he said.

He also thanked all those who volunteered.

‘‘The event would not happen without the amazing volunteers who come out and offer their assistance over the weekend, it is just fantastic,’’ he said.

‘‘I get a list of people wanting to lend a hand without having to ask. They come to me wanting to help.’’