Illawarra Blue Stars Athletic Club and Athletics New South Wales will bring the State 60m and I mile championship to Wollongong again this year. Classed as one of the quickest races on the athletic calendar, the 60m always thrills the crowds and this year promises to be just as exciting. To be held at the Kerryn McCann Athletic Centre on Saturday 14 January, spectators will be treated to an evening of top line athletics. Entry is free, and with supporting events, the program brings to the Gong some of the best athletes in the State. Last year’s event saw 4 athletes meet the Games qualifying mark, and although there is no Olympic Games this year, athletes are hoping this event will tune them up for the coming State and Australian titles. Defending women’s champion over the 60m , local Kiama athlete Abbie Tadeo, has indicated she will be a starter , whilst her hurdles opponent and Olympian Michelle Jenneke will also be back to Wollongong. Former junior champion and one of the most promising sprinters Olivia Toro has also indicated she would love to compete in preparation for her comeback to the short sprints.
The men’s 60m this year will be wide open and local sprinters Lachlan Parry and Kyle Grubnic will be a force while Blue Stars U20 defending champion, Steven Harriman will be out to take the title once again.
The men’s and women’s State title over the mile will be an interesting event, and on recent performances should present a high quality field in both.
Masters’ athletes will also be catered for with the Blue Stars medals up for grabs to any registered Master’s athlete. Racing over 60m, the masters’ fields have some talented sprinters in both men and women, with locals amongst them.
Supporting events are also on the program to give the newly named Illawarra Track Challenge (formerly the Illawarra Track Classic) a program of non-stop action.
All local athletes are urged to compete and are asked to enter by ANSW web site.