Funding push helps Little Aths run

THE Ballarat Little Athletics Centre at Llanberris Reserve has been financially supported by Coles.

The organisation has received a $4500 grant to cover new needed equipment under the Little Athletics Community Fund.

President Hayden Hill said the money will support young athletes and the club’s volunteers to get back to the track and field after a challenging year.

“The grant will have a huge impact on our centre,” he said.

“It will allow us to purchase new marquees so that our athletes and parent volunteers will have a safer and more comfortable experience at our weekly meets.”

Coles state general manager Mark O’Connor was pleased to see the funds go towards the next generation of talent, and the people in their lives helping them along the way.

“We know it’s been a difficult six months for everyone involved in community sport in Victoria,” he said.

“We hope these grants will give athletes and volunteers a morale boost ahead of the new season. Coles is passionate about helping kids lead healthier, happier lives.

“We’re delighted to have raised more than $363,000 in Victoria, and $1.68 million nationally for local sports clubs through the Little Athletics Community Fund in just two years.”

Earlier in the year, the Australian Sports Foundation estimated more than 16,000 community sports clubs were at risk of folding because of COVID-19’s economic impacts.