Kajsa Bergqvist heads Oslo IAAF Kids' Athletics (© Getty Images)
Oslo, NorwayThe first event of the IAAF 2003 Kids’ Athletics Tour took place today at the famous Bislett Stadium in Oslo.
The tremendous rain showers that hampered events on the track, didn’t prevent 140 youngsters aged 10 to 14, who were divided into 12 teams, joyously crowding on to the infield of the stadium where 12 different exercises were waiting for them.
Once the bright Norwegian sun had made its way through the clouds, the kids started their friendly competition which placed the emphasis firmly on fun and enjoyment, thus hoping to attract more young people to practice the sport of Athletics regularly.
The teenagers were led through the various running, jumping and throwing activities by Swedish high jumper Kajsa Bergqvist, who has agreed to be the Main Patron of the IAAF Kids’ Athletics.
Kajsa led the kids through a jogging lap of the track and some warm up drills before helping them with the Flying Pole, the Formula One relay and the Skipping Rope amongst other fun workouts.
“It was great, the kids seemed to love it and I really enjoyed it too,” said Kajsa after spending close on two hours surrounded by the joyous teenagers.
“I wish I could have spent more time with them. It was really funny to see all the different personalities in there, those who are very shy and those who never stop talking…”
“Next time I will teach them the fundamentals of High Jumping.”
All participating kids were handed an IAAF Kids’ Athletics diploma personally signed by Kajsa Bergqvist who will be one of the star attractions of Friday’s Exxon Mobil Bislett Games, the first meeting of the 2003 IAAF Golden League.
12-year old Patrick, a member of the yellow team, was delighted by his encounter with Kajsa.
“She is great. I love her. I even had my T-shirt signed,” he said after posing for the official group photograph. “I am not really into athletics but I think I might start practicing the sport next fall.”
The IAAF Kids’ Athletics moves on to Berlin on 3 July where another few hundred lucky children will experience the magic of Athletics.
IAAF
