For the second consecutive year, Airdrie will be hosting the Hershey’s Track and Field Meet, May 10.
Last year’s meet drew nearly 300 participants, and Jodie Matsuba-Szucs, event organizer and president of the Airdrie Aces Athletics Club, is hoping for a similar number this year.
“Last year, it was the largest local open meet in Alberta,” said Matsuba-Szucs. “It was huge and we had a big turnout. It was pouring rain, though, so we’re hoping for better weather this year.”
Athletes born before 2004 can participate in a maximum of three events, including softball throw, standing long jump and running events. The top four winners from each event will advance to the provincial meet in Edmonton June 16 to 17. Athletes born in 2004 and 2005 can participate in the 50- and 400-metre races, but aren’t eligible to advance to provincials.
“We’re giving them a taste (of the events) and feeding them for when they’re old enough to go to provincials,” said Matsuba-Szucs. “The Hershey meet is often a discovery for (the athletes) and it’s a big part of why and how we started the track club last year. Hopefully, we can find a few more athletes who say ‘hey, I like this.’”
The meet will take place at the Genesis Place track starting at 5 p.m. Athletes wanting to participate can register online at www.airdrieathletics.com before the May 7 deadline. The meet is free to enter and no experience is required.
