More than 640 young athletes from across the state will gather at the Bundaberg Regional Athletics Facility next weekend for the Coles Spring Carnival.
Participants, ranging from Under seven to Under 17, will proudly wear their centre colours as they compete in a variety of events including sprints, middle-distance races, walks, jumps, and throws.
The carnival has attracted athletes from across Queensland, including Rockhampton, Brisbane, the Gold and Sunshine Coasts, Toowoomba, Goondiwindi, Chinchilla and Tully all making the journey to Bundaberg to participate.
Little Athletics is a family-oriented sport, so alongside the athletes, parents and families will be there to cheer them on with 800 to 1000-odd spectators across the day.
Additionally, more than 70 volunteers, officials, and coaches will be on hand to ensure the athletes perform at their best and the carnival runs smoothly.
With over 12,000 young athletes state-wide, Little Athletics Queensland continues to grow in popularity.
While many participants enjoy the physical activity and social aspects, some will go on to represent Australia in athletics, with a select few possibly achieving Olympic or Paralympic success.
Dual World Champion, Tokyo Olympic bronze medallist and Coles Ambassador Kelsey-Lee Barber, who embodies this potential, will attend the carnival off the back of her third Olympic Games in Paris.
“We are excited to welcome a two-time World Athletics Champion and Coles Ambassador, Kelsey-Lee Barber, to Bundaberg,” Little Athletics Queensland CEO, Christopher Davis said.
“Kelsey-Lee will be present from 9.30 am to 11.30 am to sign autographs, present medals to event winners, and meet our future stars.”
Christopher said Little Athletics in Queensland had continued to thrive, offering a well-rounded sporting experience for children that focused on individual skill improvement rather than just winning and losing.
“We serve as a foundation for all sports, as the essential skills of running, jumping, and throwing are easily transferable,” he said.
“It’s remarkable to consider that many of Australia’s top athletes across various sports began their journey with Little Athletics.”
