Cook Islands has been confirmed winners of the Kids’ Athletics Day Member Federation Challenge following their eight-day programme of activities throughout May.

Athletics Cook Islands President Simone Fe’ao said: “We are so excited to have our Kids Athletics Day efforts in little Cook Islands recognised on the World Stage beating off 106 other countries for 1st place."

Around the world, more than 300,000 children from six continental areas participated in events to mark Kids Athletics Day – a global day dedicated to celebrating children and young people being active by participating in athletics.

Cook Islands were selected as winners as they held ‘Give it a Go’ Kids Athletics circuit events in May, covering the basic skills of running jumping and throwing. They gave each island suggestions of what equipment can be used based on what is available on their island. Almost 500 children took part in the events.

Fe’ao said the credit goes out to a small team of passionate volunteers, families and schools who got involved across Aitutaki, Atiu, Mangaia, Mauke and Mitiaro.

“This award is great timing for us as we have recently received new resources and training from World Athletics on Kids programs and we are shortly starting our annual Athletics program in schools leading up to the CITC Prince of Wales Athletics Champs.

“With this funding we will be able to ensure there is equipment and enough trained facilitators to keep the program running effectively.”

If you want to get involved, drop an email to athleticsci@gmail.com.

Children wanting to join, can head down to the stadium on Monday and Wednesday at 3pm.