A contribution of $100k from Kevin and Penny Atkinson will ensure the new athletics track being installed at Mitre 10 Sport Park incorporates state-of-the-art technology.

The resurfacing will ensure the track continues to meet national and international athletics standards in time for the summer season, while remaining an accessible and affordable facility for the wider community.

Originally constructed in 2007, the athletics track was the first major facility developed at Mitre 10 Park and has since supported thousands of athletes, schools, clubs and community members.

The German technology – Polytan SmarTrack – allows precision timing of competing athletes, with an app enabling instant data, and is deemed a necessity for Mitre 10 Park to continue to attract and host national and international competitions.

Kevin Atkinson, a badminton aficionado, has been a major sponsor of Hawke’s Bay sport over the years, including Hawks basketball Hawkes and the rugby Magpies.

Installing the technology was a “now or possibly never”  opportunity according to Atkinson, so he and wife Penny wanted to make sure it happened.

Another key contributor to the track resurfacing is Craig Hickson, also a major donor to charitable projects across HB.

Interesting how the same names seem to surface over and over.

As appreciated as this support is from established ‘veteran’ benefactors like Atkinson and Hickson, wouldn’t it be great to see some fresh younger faces pick up the philanthropic reins around Hawke’s Bay?!