TONGA'S 88th Inter College Athletics Competition began on April 19 at the Teufaiva Outdoor Stadium bringing together hundreds of athletes from various high schools throughout Tonga, to compete in the three-day event.

The annual competition this year is between 19 High Schools from Tongatapu and sports teams representing Secondary Schools from Vava'u, Ha'apai and 'Eua.

Today the competition began with the 1,500m for the Open, Intermediate and Senior grades for both boys and girls; followed by the 100m hurdles, long jump, high jump, shot put and discus. Field events included triple jump, high jump and javelin.

Tomorrow and Thursday April 20-21, events will include the 200m hurdles, 400m hurdles, 800m and 100m, with finals of events on Thursday, April 21.

Liahona High School won the Tonga's 87th Inter College Athletic Sports Competition, with a total of 71 medals last year.

The Inter College competition began this morning with a colourful parade by sports team led by the Lavengamalie College brass band.