Top athletes to compete in track and field champs

An impressive lineup of athletes will take part in the New Zealand Track and Field Championships,...
An impressive lineup of athletes will take part in the New Zealand Track and Field Championships, including Paralympian Anna Grimaldi, seen here winning gold at the Paris 2024 Paralympics Women’s 200m — T47 Final. PHOTO: DAVID RAMOS/GETTY IMAGES
After a nine-year absence, the 2025 Jennian Homes New Zealand Track and Field Championships have returned to Dunedin, promising four action-packed days of high-calibre competition at the Caledonian Ground.

On Friday, Olympic silver medallist Maddi Wesche will enter the women’s shot put final, bringing power and precision to the circle.

Tori Peeters, Olympian and national record-holder, is set for the women’s javelin final.

Connor Bell, New Zealand’s discus men’s record-holder, takes on the men’s discus final.

The Friday schedule also features finals in the 800m, 3000m steeplechase, 4x100m relay and the Under-20s 5000m.

On Saturday, Olympic high jump champion and Halberg Sportsman of the Year Hamish Kerr will draw the crowd’s attention, while Halberg Para Athlete of the Year Anna Grimaldi returns to the 200m for the first time since her Paralympic victory.

Tom Walsh and Jacko Gill’s shot put showdown promises a gripping contest, as will the women’s pole vault featuring Eliza McCartney and Livi McTaggart.

Zoe Hobbs, Oceania’s fastest woman, lines up in the 100m final, while Tiaan Whelpton will challenge for top honours in the men’s race.

For those unable to watch in person, the Athletics NZ YouTube channel will stream every moment live, with commentary from Sarah Cowley-Ross and Nick Bewley capturing every headline performance.

sam.henderson@thestar.co.nz