REGINA — For more than 200 young athletes from across Saskatchewan, a five-day track and field camp in Regina is offering a rare chance to train, compete and learn from experienced coaches.
Over the next week, kids from across Saskatchewan born between 2009 and 2013 will participate in the provincial track and field camp hosted by the Royal Canadian Legion Saskatchewan Command at the Canada Games Athletic Complex.
“They come here, and they just get a different perspective on the sport, and they can see different things and maybe find something that'll help them with their performances in the future,” said head coach Kelly Wells.
Wells noted that many athletes come from rural areas of the province, where access to coaching opportunities is limited.
“It's tough in those smaller centres because those event experts don't necessarily come from those areas. There are a few pockets where there's a really good track community.”
With many athletes having limited opportunities, Wells emphasized the importance of bringing a team of well-rounded coaches.
Athletes are provided with the opportunity to attend the camp through sponsorship from various Legions in the province.
“Last year we had 40 Legion branches across Saskatchewan sponsor an athlete for $500. Kindersley, Saskatchewan, this year sponsored seven athletes, and Melfort sponsored four or five athletes,” said camp director David Burke.
The camp itself costs thousands to run and facilitate.
Of the more than 200 athletes participating, 36 will move on to the Legion National Track and Field Championships in Regina this August.
The championship typically sees 800 to 900 athletes.
As for future camps, Burke said they’re aiming to increase turnout to 250 people.
“That would be the highest number we’ve ever had.”
