Pink Relays

		The AAA Tom Pink Relays The AAA have been left a substantial bequest by an elderly lady, Mrs Louise Pink, for a children’s programme in memory of her son Tom who was tragically killed in an accident in the early 1950’s. After discussion with our colleagues at UKA and England Athletics, we have decided to use this generous gift to fund a series of children’s relays in support of and leading up to the 2012 games in London. Our proposals are for these Tom Pink Relays to be held at Athletic and other sporting fixtures at both indoor and outdoor venues. The format of the relays which have been thoroughly tested and proved very popular with both children and spectators are directed at the under 11 and under 13 age groups. The relays can be run on a 400 metre track or on an improvised 200 metre track set on a rugby or soccer pitch as pre-match entertainment; we are discussing this matter with a number of League clubs.
		1 Keeping up with Paula (mixed teams of Under 11 Girls and Boys) This is a 2000 metre continuous relay for mixed teams of 10 girls and boys in the under 11 age group. It is a well proven event which has proved very popular with the youngsters and demonstrates to the children just how fast Paula was running when she set the Commonwealth Record at 3000 metres. A large clock indicates the lap times as the relay progresses and only a few teams have ever managed to keep ahead of the target. An announcer, informing the children and spectators lap by lap if they are ahead or behind the target, creates considerable excitement. Incidentally, Paula used to take part in these as a little girl.  2 Chasing Kelly (Teams of 5 under 13 Girls) This will be a 1500 metre continuous relay for teams 5 in the under 13 girls age group. This is a challenge for the girls to beat Kelly’s 800 metre and 1500 metre record. Each team member will run 3 times over 100 metres to complete the distance. Kelly has given this event her blessing. 3. 1500 metre Chase for Boys (Teams of 5 under 15 Boys) For the boys we would again hold a 1500 metre continuous relay for teams of 5 in the under 13 age group. This is a challenge for the boys to chase the times set by Seb and the two Steve’s for the 800 metre and 1500 metres distances. Each team member will run 3 times over 100 metres to complete the distance. Outreach The funding from the bequest will enable the AAA to hold 10 to 12 events a year in the UK but should further sponsorship become available we would like to get the programme into every nook and cranny of the Nation. The AAA working with UKA and England Athletic are keen to support the Olympic effort and stimulate interest in our sport amongst youngsters.

This site was last updated 07/20/07