Under the sponsorship deal, IGA will become the principal sponsor of the cross country competition, which will enable the TLAA to offer more young children the opportunity to compete in cross country events around Tasmania.
Obesity in Tasmania is a growing problem for children and can have lasting lifelong impact if a healthy approach to physical activity is not undertaken at an early age. Over 60 per cent of Tasmanian’s who are physically inactive are overweight or obese.
Chief Executive Officer of Tasmanian Independent Retailers (TIR) Grant Hinchcliffe said that on behalf of IGA Supermarkets throughout Tasmania he was proud to announce the new cross country sponsorship.
"We are delighted to have the opportunity to provide community based assistance for a younger generation of Tasmanians through support for the TLAA," Mr Hinchcliffe said.
"In a world where childhood obesity is becoming a real issue, community programs like these are vital, which is why we have chosen to support this worthwhile program."
TLAA President Rhonda O’Sign said she was delighted to be onboard with IGA Supermarkets through this principal partnership agreement.
"Little Athletics is a foundation for all sports and offers young children valuable life skills which will stand them in good stead for the future," Ms O’Sign said.
"With the support of IGA I am certain that more children will progress from track and field competition through to the cross country season, thereby continuing their little athletics all year round."
In addition to the support given to the Little Athletics cross country competition, IGA will also be offering all Little Athletics members the opportunity to enter competitions to win IGA grocery vouchers.
IGA will also assist in the roll out of a new IGA Kids Club program in Tasmania. The Kids Club program is a club for children 4-12 years old, which provides fun and exciting activities, colouring contests and games.
