Cross-country season begins

On the move: The community is being invited to participate in cross-country events now that the Bacchus Marsh Athletics Centre track and field season has ended. Photo: FILE

YOUNG athletes looking to stay fit throughout winter are invited to join Bacchus Marsh Little Athletics Centre for the cross-country season.

The season begins Saturday 3 May at Lake Dewar, Myrniong, with participants asked to arrive at 10.15am before the first race at 10.30am.

Each age group runs a different distance, with under five-year-olds starting at 500 metres and the under-13 to 17-year-olds running the longest distance of 3000 metres.

Athletes of all abilities are invited to go along and develop their skills.

They are not required to have taken part in the track and field season.

“It’s not only for your kids that like distance running, it’s also an opportunity to get that base training,” committee member Linda Thompson said.

“We have athletes of all abilities competing so it’s a pretty casual, relaxed atmosphere and it’s more about the kids just getting out and having a go.”

Ms Thompson said the cross-country season is an opportunity to make new friends as the club combines with Melton City Little Athletics Centre.

“When you do track and field you just run in your age group in your gender whereas in cross country, we have mixed age groups competing together,” she said.

“We also have Melton City Athletics Club that join us for the competition, and we’ve also had Ballarat athletes come and compete.

“Children registered with other centres are welcome to come and join us.”

Registration fees for the summer athletics season also cover the cross-country season.

New members are welcome to register for $75.

New or trial athletes must register through the LAVic registration portal.