Scattered showers over Nuku’alofa today did not dampen the spirits of hundreds of students who gathered at the Teufaiva Outdoor Stadium for the 91st Inter-Collegiate Athletics Competition.

Nineteen secondary and middle schools from Tongatapu, Ha'apai and Vavau are competing in the annual three-day sports competition.

Tupouto'a College from Nomuka, Ha'apai is participating for the first time while Vava’u is represented by Mailefihi-Siu’ilikutapu College.

The island of ‘Eua is not represented in this year's competiton, and all the High Schools and Middle Schools of the Church of Latter Days Saints are also not participating.

First day events included the 1500m run, 100m hurdles, 400m, 200m and 4x400m relay and some field events.

The excitement of this year's competiton is further energised with the introduction of a Cheering Competition by the International Womens Day National Planning Committee. The theme for the cheering competition is “Make it Happen: Women in Parliament.” The first prize $1,000.00; second prize $800 and the third prize $600 pa‘anga. Winners will be announced on Friday, 17 April.