Otago runners title contenders

Fifty-one Otago athletes will compete in the national secondary schools cross-country championships today.

The championships, held at Old Ascot golf course in Christchurch, will feature 883
of the country's best young runners.

They are split into sections for boys and girls, with year 9, junior and senior grades, as well as junior and senior para competitions.

Otago's biggest representation is in the senior boys grade.

It has several strong contenders, notably in Otago senior champion Janus Staufenberg, from Mount Aspiring College.

Under-16 champion Drew Cairney, of King's High School, will also look to mount a challenge in the senior grade.

In the senior girls, Mount Aspiring's Sammy Burke will be among the top contenders for a title. One of Otago's most promising athletes, she has excelled on the national stage at various events in the past.

King's and Mount Aspiring runners will also be among the region's best hopes in the junior boys grade. Only one second separated winner George Bates and second-placed Leo Staufenberg at the Otago event.

Add a Comment