Inspiring collaboration at the Colgate Games
The Colgate Games recently highlighted a powerful example of teamwork, resilience, and inclusion in track athletics. At the heart of the action was Sam Ruthe, an accomplished athlete and guide, who supported visually impaired sprinter Tamahau Hicks. Hicks competes for Te Aroha Athletics Club and Achilles Tauranga Moana, and his performance was a testament to how adaptive sport can empower athletes of all abilities.
The event provided a platform where skill and trust intersect. With Hicks able to see the white rail on the inside of the track, his guiding arrangement didn’t require a tether. This practical detail allowed Ruthe to run directly alongside Hicks, offering real-time feedback, pacing, and encouragement as the race unfolded. The duo’s coordination showcased not only Hicks’s speed and technique but also Ruthe’s experience in guiding — a dynamic partnership that helps athletes navigate turns, maintain rhythm, and stay focused on the finish line.
The guiding partnership in action
Guide runners like Ruthe play a crucial role in ensuring visually impaired athletes can compete at high levels. By hovering at Hicks’s side, Ruthe was able to communicate cues, adapt to changing race conditions, and provide the confident presence needed to push through challenging moments. Hicks’s awareness of the track and Ruthe’s steady pace created a seamless relay of information that allowed Hicks to execute clean, efficient strides and a strong final surge.
Strategic pacing and trust
Success for Hicks hinges on precise pacing and trust. Ruthe’s responsibility goes beyond simply keeping pace; he acts as an on-track mentor, helping Hicks read the line, anticipate turns, and optimize breathing and energy expenditure across each lap. The result is a race that emphasizes technique and endurance, with Hicks showcasing the speed and precision enabled by a reliable guide.
Community impact and future potential
Events like the Colgate Games extend beyond individual performances. They highlight how inclusive sport can inspire spectators, volunteers, and budding athletes. Hicks’s progress with Ruthe’s guidance demonstrates the value of accessible pathways in athletics and reinforces the importance of support networks within clubs like Te Aroha Athletics Club and Achilles Tauranga Moana. The success also underscores the potential for more collaborations, coaching resources, and equipment innovations that support visually impaired athletes in track and field.
Looking ahead for Hicks and Ruthe
With theColgate Games experience under their belts, Hicks and Ruthe are well-positioned to pursue further competitions. The partnership serves as a model for other athletes and guide runners who share a mission of high performance paired with inclusivity. As Hicks continues to sharpen his speed and Ruthe refines his guiding technique, both athletes embody the spirit of community sport — where capability meets opportunity and every finish line is a shared victory.
