By Michelle Adams Sport Development Advisor Sport Bay of Plenty

The 2012/13 Athletics season has kicked off with two of the city's junior athletic clubs relocating to Tauranga Domain to take advantage of the onsite athletics facilities.

At the end of last season, the Bellevue Athletic Club committee realised they were ready for change and with the goal of wanting to grow the club and the sport of athletics for their kids, their aim was to give their young athletes access to the best facilities on offer in the city.

This has since seen them move from Otumoetai College to the Domain.

Club president Ruth Tuiraviravi says 'the kids and parents are absolutely thrilled with the all weather track, and being at the Domain means they get to see top senior athletes in action. 'As a committee we were rewarded for our efforts on our first club night of the season by seeing approximately 300 kids from 1-14-years-old actively engaged in athletics supported by their parents and caregivers.”

The Greerton Amateur Athletics Club, which caters for 4 – 14-year-olds have also made the move to the central city location.

Previously operating out of Pemberton Park in Greerton, the club sees being located at the Tauranga Domain as a great opportunity for the members.

They will now get experience on the all weather rubber track as well as having the ability to utilise the onsite electronic timing for track events.

The field events are also aided by being held in correct throwing circles. After hosting two club nights at their new premises the club is quickly settling in and like the Bellevue Club their members are enjoying being able to watch the seniors train and compete as it gives the kids great motivation for their own athletics aspirations.

If you are interested in joining in the fun make sure you make it along to one of the club nights listed below or if you are after more details just contact the appropriate club president.

Bellevue Athletics Club: Tuesday nights 5.30pm til 6.30pm for Mini Club (0-6 years) and 5.30pm til 7.20pm for Junior Club (7-14 years).

Contact: Ruth Tuiraviravi, Club President, 021 0404879

Greerton Amateur Athletics Club: Monday nights, 5.30pm sharp (4-14years).

Contact: Bruce Habgood, Club President, bruce.habgood@norskeskog.com