Forget the weather forecast - the sun always shines on the day of the Central Otago primary schools athletics.
The best athletes -more than 500 children - from 23 schools in Central Otago and Queenstown Lakes district converged on Molyneux Park in Alexandra yesterday for the annual event.
Convener Mick Enright, of The Terrace School in Alexandra, said fine weather was always guaranteed.
"I can't recall ever postponing or cancelling this event. It's always a hot day or hot and windy, like today."
The temperature reached 24degC yesterday and spectators and supporters headed for the shaded areas around the park and in the grandstand.
Mr Enright's involvement has spanned almost 20 years, and the athletics has been going since 1958.
"The longest-lasting record we have dates back to 1958 and it still remains intact, even after this year's competition."
That record is for the girls' 13 and over long jump, and it was set by Mary Truesdale, of Manuherikia. Her winning distance was 4.72m.
Mr Enright said a host of volunteers ensured the day went smoothly. Each school took responsibility for running one track or field event.
The top athletes from the day have an opportunity to participate in the Otago primary school athletics on November 17.
