By Jamie Strudley
Yarra Ranges Athletics club athletes feature among a star-studded roster at the Australian Track and Field Championships held in Brisbane last week.
Australia’s best athletes were competing to earn selection for major global championships later in the year.
First up on Thursday afternoon was Sarah Ebbels in the Women’s U20 Hammer throw. Sarah threw the 4kg hammer a staggering 35.91m for a new PB and club record finishing 17th . Later on Thursday evening Ash Almond was part of a large field in the Open Men’s Javelin. Ash had a very good series of throws with a best of 43.91m and an excellent 13th place finish.
Friday was the turn of Olivia Twining in the Open Women’s 3000m Steeple. In very warm, humid conditions, Olivia ran a great race to finish 9th in a time of 11.05.13, just outside her PB and club record.
Saturday was time for Joseph Johnston and Rori Jones to compete. Joseph was part of a very competitive Para Open 100m field, running 13.32 in his heat just missing a new PB. Later in the day, Rori competed in
the Women’s U20 400m Hurdles running a fantastic race, fading at the end to a record 72.38 seconds.
Sunday was a family fun day at a warm, windy QSAC athletics track. Harry Norman was part of a very even Open Mens 5000m race. After a solid start to the race, Harry drifted in the latter stages to finish 18th in
15.09.74. While disappointed with the result Harry and the rest of the team should be very proud of their performances against the best athletes in Australia.
Everyone now has an opportunity to draw breath and clean their shoes before the start of cross-country season in a few weeks. Before then club athletes Zoe Clarke and Brigette Rice will represent Victoria at the Australian Junior Track and Field Championships for U13 to U18 athletes.
Training continues for all club members on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 5.30pm with the emphasis changing to preparing for cross country. Yarra Ranges Athletics welcomes and encourages all athletes of any age or ability.
If you, or someone you know, want to join in the Little Athletics fun registration is at www.lavic.com.au.
For information on training, how to join or trial, photos, results and updated news, visit the website at yarrarangesathletics.org.au or check us out on Facebook. Run, Jump, Throw…too easy!
