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Young athletes from Kurrajong-Bilpin Little Athletics Centre delivered an impressive display of determination and community spirit at the Zone Championships in Lithgow on 6–7 December, competing in challenging conditions at the end of a long season.
The two-day event brought together clubs from across the Blue Mountains and north-west region, with the top six finishers in each final earning automatic qualification for the upcoming Region Championships in Dubbo early next year.
Despite extreme heat and strong winds on Saturday, Kurrajong-Bilpin athletes recorded podium finishes across a wide range of events, including sprints, middle-distance races, hurdles, jumps, and throws. Coaches praised the resilience of competitors who stepped into unfamiliar events or filled team positions at short notice due to injury or illness.
Longtime coach Marilyn Pearson said the weekend was about more than medals.
“Some didn’t place and some just missed finals, but every effort mattered,” she said. “We don’t just cheer for results we cheer for courage, commitment, and supporting one another.”
Several athletes stood out with multiple medal performances, including Zara Perry, Brock Arrowsmith, Mason Georgiadis, and Sienna King. Others showed grit by competing while returning from injury, with coaches noting the perseverance of middle-distance runner Levi Clarke.
One of the most inspiring performances came from 12-year-old Isaac Jones, who competed with his wrist in a cast. Despite the injury, Jones qualified in all of his events and went on to win gold in the 200m, 400m, long jump, and triple jump.
Volunteers were also acknowledged for their vital role in the championships, including walk judges Felicity and Alex Sinnett, organiser Elise Wilkins, and Bianca, who supported the throws groups throughout the weekend.
With the Region Championships scheduled for 31 January–1 February, Kurrajong-Bilpin athletes will now return to summer training to prepare for the next level of competition.
From the track to the field, the club continues to demonstrate what can be achieved when young athletes are supported by a dedicated local community.
