All 22 Provinces have nominated athletes for the Track & Field Competition at the PNG Games which is due to commence on 24 November, with a record of 800 athletes in total. However these numbers are based on the entries submitted by Provinces before the closing date set by the PNG Games Council and Athletics officials don't expect that number to actually turn up in Kokopo. "As the financial reality sets in we are seeing teams reduce their numbers" said Athletics President Tony Green. Team ENB, as one would expect has the largest number of athletes with 62, followed by West New Britain with 54 and Autonomous region of Bouganville with 45. " Our officials are endeavouring to conduct individual team managers to confirm the names of those actually travelling, so we can get a better idea of the number of qualifying rounds necessary" said Tournament Director Peter Saliau. " We also need to clarify the events that each athlete is nominated for, as many Provinces do not seem to be aware of the rules. Athletes can only enter two track and one field event or two field and one track event. For this purpose the heptathlon and Octathlon are considered one event, and the half marathon road race does not count at all for the rule. Hence athlets can for example nominate for the 5000m, 10000m and half marathon. We would also like to make it clear that the list of events does not include a mens and a mowens 3000m as well the 3000m steeplechase."
Salaiau also warned visiting teams that Athletics Officials will recognise only one team manager for each province, and that no athlets will be accepted if they havve not been entered through the official accreditation system."In previous Games certain provinces have come with two or three different groups led by different managers and tried to field additional athletes." We will not tolerate this practise, said Salaiau.
Meanwhile Athletics PNG is going ahead with plans to stage an Oceania Athletics Coaching Course on November 20 to 22 and has urged participants to contact Subul Babo on 71066060 or Monica Henao on 71256511 to confirm their attendance.
Last Modified on 28/01/2013 18:15