About Kids Athletics

The WPA Kids Development Program is aimed at children between the ages of 8 and 13 years and is broken down into two disciplines:

1. Kids Athletics Program

The Kids Athletics Program was developed by the IAAF with the aim of introducing young children to athletics in a basic, attractive, accessible and instructive manner. The objectives of the program are to introduce kids to all aspects of athletics in a non-threatening, fun way that is specific to the ages of the children. Instead of merely mimicking adult athletics the Kids Athletics Program is competed in teams and allows each child to participate in each event without being judged or measured against his/her teammates. The Kids Athletics Program introduces kids to all concepts of athletics - Running, Jumping and Throwing.

2. Cross Country Program

Cross Country provides a great introduction to longer distance running and team building. Participation during the winter season will keep athletes in excellent cardio shape and on rough terrain and hills will strengthen their legs.

Children compete in the following distances:

U8 Boys & Girls – 1km

U9/10 Boys & Girls – 2km

U11 Boys & Girls – 3km

U12 Boys & Girls – 3km

U13 Boys & Girls – 4km

U14 Boys & Girls – 4km