ATHLETICS – Hurdles, high jump, shot put and finish with the 200 meters. This is what the first day of the National Championships all-around looked like for the athletes under 18 years old. And so also for Carlijn Enting (18), the only Drenthe participant in the two-day championship at AAC’61 in Assen.
“It really feels like a real home game. Not having to drive two or three hours sometimes is nice,” she laughs. “I train here, I know everyone and it is extra special to be able to participate in a National Championship here.”
Most athletics competitions are held below the rivers. And therefore often a long drive for the versatile athlete who combines her sporting ambitions with two studies and a part-time job.
Assen is hosting the National All-Around Championships for the second year in a row. This is appreciated by both participants and the organization.
“The girls I am here with are the top in the Netherlands,” says Enting. “It is a strong field of participants, but that is precisely why it is also very fun. I know many athletes and it is special to be able to perform here in front of family, friends and other acquaintances.”
A proud coach Janine Roelfsema sees her pupil as a source of inspiration for the younger athletes on the track. “Carlijn is really an example for the rest. They see her shine in events such as the hurdles and the 200 meters and think: I want that too. With such an event we also put Assen on the map.”
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