The Colgate Women’s Games Championships are scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 10, at The Armory on Fort Washington Avenue between West 168th and West 169th streets, the New Balance Track and Field Center. Semi-finalist winners from Saturday’s competition at Pratt Institute advance to the final day of competition, culminating their 44th season of track and field games.
There are six age divisions: Elementary A, Elementary B, Middle School, High School, College (Open) and 30 Plus. There are several categories in each division: 55 Meters, 55 Meter Hurdles, 200 Meters, 400 Meters, 800 Meters, 1500 Meters, High Jump and Shot Put. Each division might not have every category.
This season’s participants are from as far away as Georgia and Massachusetts. The games will host some of the nation’s top-ranked and heavily recruited athletes. They provide a major platform for college recruitment of student athletes.
“The games encourage young girls and women to strive, to challenge themselves in an atmosphere of friendly competition. It’s a means to empower them with self-esteem,” said Meet Director Cheryl Toussaint. “The experience lasts a lifetime.”
This season, the Colgate Women’s Games will also honor Rhonda Hopkins from the Queen’s Metro Eagles Track Club and Thomas Francis from the Bronx Zodiacs Track Club with Coach of the Year awards.
In addition to the awards for those who win, other awards are also given to Most Improved Competitor, Most Promising Newcomer, Most Outstanding Finals Competitor and to outstanding preliminaries and semi-finalist competitors.