1992 - NORFOLK ISLAND:
One of the Region’s smallest Affiliates in Norfolk Island
undertook the task of hosting the 6th Oceania Championships,
through the drive and determination of Ian Anderson.
Major work was required in enlarging the island school’s
athletic track and completely redeveloping the facility, while
community and government support was evident throughout the
planning, preparation and staging of the championships.
These efforts were properly rewarded with over 450 athletes
attending, and a most successful event.
1994 - SUVA, FIJI:
The Oceania Regional Championships returned to Suva, Fiji
in 1994 and were attended by over 300 veteran athletes.
Unfortunately the weather was not kind; consistent rain was
experienced, making life difficult for athletes and particularly
for officials. Nevertheless a successful event was held;
as usual in visits to island venues, visitors were able to
experience and enjoy the attractions and history of Fiji,
along with the friendliness of the local population.
1996 - PAPEETE, TAHITI:
Local preparations for this event were badly affected by
many difficulties. As the time for the event came nearer
the OAVA Council was required to intervene, and to take
a major role to ensure that the Championships would be
held successfully. This was necessary to protect the interest
of athletes who had made financial commitments for travel
and accommodation, entry fees, etc.
Unfortunately, competitor numbers were greatly reduced as
a consequence of the uncertainties and problems. Nonetheless
the true spirit of Oceania Veteran athletics enabled those
who did attend to enjoy a successful carnival.
1998 - HASTINGS, NEW ZEALAND:
New Zealand staged the Oceania Championships for the second
time when the 9th Regional Championships were held in Hawkes
Bay in January, 1998. Preparations and planning for the
event commenced several years earlier, and the result was
an excellent event which attracted 495 athletes, the second
largest to date.
Nelson Park in Hastings proved an excellent venue while the
cross country venue at Park Island in adjacent Napier was
attractive and demanding.
Generally fine weather was experienced in the ‘Sunny
Hawkes Bay’, although perhaps fortunately the temperatures
were a little lower than usual and anticipated.
Several World veteran records were broken, along with 87
new Oceania Championship records.
2000 - NORFOLK ISLAND:
The willingness of tiny Norfolk Island to stage the Oceania
Championships for a second time in January, 2000 says much
for the spirit of a dedicated band of enthusiasts and the
local community, and deserves proper recognition.
When problems were experienced with the venue for these Championships,
Norfolk Island stepped into the breach and its offer was
accepted by the OAVA Council with due appreciation.
Planning was again thorough but, due to circumstances beyond
the control of the organising committee, local authorities
did not complete the grass track renovations in the expected
manner; this meant that the track was below the required
and anticipated standard, and caused great embarrassment
to the committee. However, it was fortunate that fine weather
prevailed and the Championships were once again a great success,
with almost 300 athletes taking part.
Despite the difficulties with the track, 47 new Oceania Championship
records were established.
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