“I’m extremely grateful for WYAT’s support. It’s not just about helping me get to Brisbane — it’s about backing my journey and believing in what I’m capable of. This trip gave me experiences I’ll carry for the rest of my life, and it’s only made me hungrier to keep going.”
In March 2025, Kiana Pohe received support from Wairoa Young Achievers Trust to travel to Brisbane, Australia, where she proudly represented her region at the Queensland Athletics Championships. The grant helped cover travel-related costs, enabling Kiana to focus on competing at an elite level without financial stress — an opportunity that proved to be both formative and inspiring.
Competing in the Women’s Open 200m sprint, Kiana stood out not only for her speed but for her determination. At just 17 years old, she was among the youngest athletes in the field, yet she ran with the poise and power of a seasoned competitor. Her performance earned her a place in the final, where she recorded her second-best personal time of 24.9 seconds — a milestone that solidified her potential on the national and international stage.
A highlight of the competition was lining up against an Australian Olympic 200m sprinter, whose presence pushed Kiana to dig deep and test her limits. “Being in that kind of field gave me a better understanding of what it takes to compete at the highest level,” Kiana said. “It wasn’t just about speed — it was about grit, composure, and knowing how far you can push through fatigue. I walked away with confidence and motivation to go further.”
Kiana’s sprinting season continued back home, where she competed at the 2025 New Zealand Track and Field Nationals as part of the Hawke’s Bay–Gisborne regional team. She ran the second leg in the Senior Women’s 4x100m relay, and the team made history by breaking the provincial record — a remarkable feat that reflects the strength of the region’s talent. Kiana also qualified for the Women’s Open 100m, where she placed 6th overall against a tough national field.
Off the track, Kiana is known for her discipline, positive attitude, and commitment to her sport. She trains under a structured sprint programme that includes speed mechanics, strength and conditioning, and race-day strategy, often balancing her training schedule with school commitments and travel. Her next goals include qualifying for the New Zealand Secondary School Championships and continuing to lower her 100m and 200m PBs as she moves toward junior elite status.
She credits WYAT’s support with helping her seize this opportunity and take a leap forward in her development as an athlete.
