COACH of Super Upcoming Runners (SUR) Athletics Club, Niall Stanton, is optimistic of his club’s chances at the Independence Track and Field Championships set for today and tomorrow at the National Track and Field Centre, Leonora.

“Club SUR is very prepared for this meet and is looking to do better than last year. The athletes are working and are being supervised by top local coach Sir Rose,” Stanton revealed.

Further, Stanton shared that they expect good performances from their athletes. “Well, as coaches, we have very high expectations and are hoping to be in the top three or five because of the training so far that we have them going through.”

In addition, Stanton pointed out that such meets aid in the development of the sport/ “A meet like this is great for the development of the athletes of all ages and it brings out the best from them.

“Most of them get a small gift and they love that and if you look at sports like this, it really goes a far way because you are seeing now more and more persons going out there and representing; and that is what raises the level of competition.”

With limited age group championships around, Stanton also believes that more of these competitions are needed. “Yes, we do need more events for the athletes even if it is every other week, because it will motivate them more and also help the coach or coaches to know if they are developing and what needs to be changed in the training programme from time to time,” Stanton stated.

However, Stanton did mention some of the athletes to watch out for, come championship time. He named Cordell Charles who just got back from CARIFTA Games, Joel Williams, Savannah Adams and Vibert Dummett.”

The meet will commence at 10:00hrs both days.