Sam stars in his first season

SAM Kingston has enjoyed one of those seasons that you dream of.

This was his first year involved in athletics, but there was no beginner’s nerves as he took it in his stride – or should that be in his throw, given his gold medal in the turbo javelin.

Sam (7), a second class pupil at Dreeney NS, followed in the footsteps of his older sister Katie (11) who excelled in the turbo javelin with Skibbereen Athletics Club the previous season.

Competing in the U19 age-group, Sam won gold at West Cork, county and Munster level, setting a new Munster record in the latter. He then teamed up with Dylan O’Donovan and the Skibb duo won both the combined Munster and All-Ireland titles, as Sam finished the season with five fantastic gold medals. No wonder his parents Michael and Jo Kingston were so proud.

‘He had a great season, and so did Katie again,’ Jo explained.

‘They both love the turbo javelin, and it’s important too that kids realise that there are field events to take part in as well as track events. Athletics has something for everyone. It’s not just running.

‘An event like the turbo javelin has been in for a few years now and we’ve been quite successful in Skibbereen Athletics Club. Hopefully other kids will see that it’s possible to excel in a sport like the turbo javelin, like Sam did this year, and get involved.’