Club seeks to revive interest in athletics

In an attempt to revive athletics in the northern areas, Atlantic Aces, which was one of the most successful clubs in the Sacos era, has started development coaching and mini athletics meetings in the area.

It has organised a two-lap walk-run around Salsoneville on Thursday, starting at 5.30pm in front of the House of Resurrection Haven.

“The idea is to promote wellness and to encourage people to participate in a group activity without fearing the criminal elements,” event organiser Derrick Hoshe said.

“We revived the club to popularise athletics in the northern areas. We want to leave a legacy and at the same time change the negative mindset of the crime-ridden community.

“The era of the McLeans and McKenzies, the Delia Lotterings and Estelle Marais needs to be revived.

“Children today do not have role models and can hardly be blamed for going astray. We plan to fill the void.

“Schools do not have athletics programmes and the senior athletics body does not organise track and field meetings at the Gelvan Track.”

The ex-athletes and officials plan to return athletics in the area to its glory days.

“I am just a member of a group which has a strong bond and plans to unearth new talent,” Hoshe said.

They are planning for a Nite Fun Run-Walk on March 1.