Meet the Coaches of PNAHC
For specific coaching inquiries or to explore training opportunities, reach out to the respective coaches via their provided contact details. Each coach brings a unique blend of expertise and success to the Palmerston North Athletics and Harrier Clubs.
The PNAHC has a regular track booking of 4-5.30pm Mon-Fri, and 10-11.30am Sat & Sun all year round. You will find the coaches here at the track during these times. We offer coaching to anyone that is keen to learn.
George McConachy - Head Coach
George has been a coach since the 1970’s He is a level three (Old System) Sprints Relays Hurdles Distance and Walks coach. He has been an Athletics New Zealand coach lecturer since 1983 and an IAAF coach lecturer since 1990. George is qualified to coach all events and has coached athletes to the world championship level. He has coached athletes to 127 New Zealand titles and many more master’s titles.
Please contact George for coaching inquiries on 027 231 8016
Vanessa Hodge
Vanessa has Run Jump Throw and Level 2 qualifications and is currently developing her own programme. Vanessa has won numerous national masters titles as well as finishing fourth in the 400m at the NZ and World Masters Track and Field Championships.
Vanessa manages the Manawatu Whanganui Centre team to the NZ Championships.
Contact Vanessa phone (027) 714 6761 or email vanessastory@hotmail.com
Tara Smith-Rolfe
Tara has Athletics NZ Level 2 qualification in Sprints, Hurdles and Relays. Tara teaches at St Peters's College and has coached for 30 years. Tara is one of 4 Selector/Managers for the Manawatu Secondary Schools Team to the North Island Champs. Tara is a Life Member of the PNAHC. She has received a Service Badge from Athletics NZ and NZ Secondary Schools Athletics.
Anne Thomson
Anne is an IAAF Level 3 coach in Jumps and an Athletics NZ Level 2 coach in Sprints, Relays and Hurdles. She has been coaching since 1992 across a range of events and levels in athletics. Anne is currently an Athletics Coach Educator for CAD Level 1. She has received a Service Badge from Athletics NZ and from NZ Secondary Schools Athletics. Anne teaches part-time at Palmerston North Girls High School.
Brian Curry
Brian coaches primarily High Jumpers and Pole-vaulters. He has a Level 2 qualification in High Jump, Sprints, Hurdles, Relays and Distance Running.
Brian competes in Masters Athletics
Katrina Gemmell
Katrina qualified as a Run Jump Throw and Level 1 coach while still a student at Freyberg High School. She is a former multiple national champion: Youth 800m Champion 1995/96/97, Youth 400m 1996, Junior 400m & 800m 1998. Katrina attended Tulane University, New Orleans, on a four year athletics scholarship. Katrina now works for Sport Manawatu as the Active Team Lead. Katrina takes our Tuesday Club Night, Run, Jump Throw Programme for children aged 3-6 years.