The 2021 Australian Track and Field Championships and Olympic Trials have now drawn to a close after eight days of competition. Whilst it was super exciting to witness Australia’s open age athletes compete in pursuit of Olympic and Paralympic berths it was just as exciting to watch Nowra’s junior athletes making their mark on the sport and battling it out for national titles, PB’s and competition experience.
Max Marshall kick started the competition for Nowra in the U14 group. Max ran a PB in his 100 heat clocking 12.25 for 3rd place, earning himself a place in the final. He then ran a brilliant final to win a Bronze medal in 12.35. His 200m heat earned him another new PB (24.65) and another spot in the final. Max went on to better his 200m heat time, running through for 4th place in the final in 24.40. Max was also the anchor for the NSW 4x100m relay team where they took the gold medal in a combined time of 48.36. 
Reilly Caswell competed in the U15 400m. In the heat he ran 53.88 for 3rd place and qualified for the final. He then raced well from lane 9 in the final holding on for 4th place and clocking 53.48; just outside his PB.
Tom Duncan contested the U15 800m and ran a PB of 2.11.95, finishing 7th in his heat.
Also contesting the 800m, but in the U17 age group, was Will Dyball. Will ran a controlled race to finish 7th in his heat in a time of 2.00.88. In addition, Will competed in the 1500m and completed the race in 4.11.33 for 8th place in his heat.
Ella Dyball tested her endurance in the U18 2000m steeplechase where she finished 8th in 8.04.97.
In the field, Samantha Peace got into the swing of things in the discus circle, throwing 46.02m to earn herself a place in the finals. Sam was up against the country’s best, with Dani Stevens taking the win with 62.74m. Sam threw 47.15m in the final placing her 6th in Australia.
In the para events Nowra had two representatives. Akala Miller had a very successful meet, winning two bronze medals. Akala was 3rd in the U17 100m with 15.77 and 3rd in the 200m (33.01).
Kynan Miller finished 4th in the U15 discus (15.24m) and 4th in shot (3.90m). Kynan also finished 5th in the 100m.
Well done to all our athletes. Qualifying for Nationals is a massive accomplishment and the Club congratulates you on your achievements at this top level amidst a field of talented athletes. You are among the best in this Country and we are proud of you.