Track competitors make an impact in WA

TWO young Ballarat athletes ran and walked their way to national podium finishes in Perth last weekend.

At the Australian All Schools Championships, FedUni WestVic Academy of Sport steeplechaser Harry Sharp and racewalker Alanna Peart both became national champions in their respective events, the Boys 2000m Under 18 Steeplechase, and Girls 5000m Under 18 Racewalk.

Amongst strong, high level fields, 16-year-old Peart claimed victory in 24 minutes and 51 seconds, while 16-year-old Sharp won his race in five minutes and 55 seconds.

FedUni WestVic Academy of Sport executive officer, Corey Saitta “couldn’t be happier. He said the WestVic team is “thrilled” with the results and their athletes’ character.

“Harry is a genuine person who is committed and disciplined,” he said. “Despite recent successful results he remains humble and determined to continue to work with his coach and support network in order to continue to learn, grow, develop and improve even further.

“Alanna as is extremely professional in her preparation and in her training. She is super competitive.

“She is both humble and unassuming and is genuinely committed to going as far as she can go in her sport.”

Sharp also competed in the Boys 1500m Under 18 Run at the championships, crossing the finish line mid-field.

Peart is a member of the Ballarat YCW Harriers Athletics Club and coached by her father, Wayne Peart.

Part of Wendouree Athletics Club, Sharp is coached by Nev Down.

Both athletes are beneficiaries of the Ballarat Renault Carworks Scholarship, assisting financially with some training, competition and travel costs.