Berry’s international debut delivers double podium finish

LOCAL athletics talent Leah Berry has delivered a memorable performance at the Oceania Athletics Championships in Darwin, claiming silver in the under-18 100m and bronze in the under-18 long jump.

Representing Australia for the first time, the Corio Athletics Club member rose to the occasion at the six-day international meet.

Berry said she was immensely proud to return home with two medals.

“Having the opportunity to compete for Australia was such an honour, and making the podium not once but twice was something I never expected to achieve,” she said.

“After working so hard for such a long time, the relief after doing what you were aiming for is the best.”

The 16-year-old said that she felt the added pressure of wearing the green and gold, but was able to remain focused and enjoy all aspects of the championships with the support of family and friends.

“I definitely felt more pressure out on the track than usual, but nerves are a good thing as it means you care,” Berry said.

“Meeting people from different countries and connecting through a shared passion for the same sport was a very special experience. I am always one of the most talkative people out there, so getting to make new friends is one of my favourite parts.”

Berry said the championships had given her confidence that she can compete with the nation’s best young athletes and had sharpened her focus on next year’s Youth Commonwealth Games.

“I know now that I’ve found something I want to continue pursuing for the rest of my life,” she said.

“Competing at such a high level has only given me more determination and motivation to improve and achieve even more next season.”