NATIONALS DAY 2 SUM UP

 It was another beautiful day of track and field at the Australian Athletics Championships. If you thought day 2 was going to be anything less than spectacular, you are are in for a heck of a surprise, and your preconceptions will be tested. 

The legend herself - Demi Wynyard returned to the track,  demonstrating her athletic prowess once again, in defiance of that dreaded sand pit during the U20 Women's Triple Jump event. Many a jaw was agape, as Demi did her coach, state and country proud, jumping a total distance of 12.65m. Yes. You heard it right. We raise our sports drinks to you Demi and toast in your name. 

Demi has no fear of sand and it certainly shows.

Kajsa Shield performed beautifully in the U16 girls Javelin event. Throwing a dazzling 40.41m, she was able to secure 2nd place, a new PB, and my admiration. Congrats Kajsa. A solid effort and placing.

Kajsa Shield, pictured left. A great throw!

Relays are a sure way to get the crowd fired up, and man did we have some performances today. The sparks trailing behind our boys in QLD's 4X100m relay teams may have been a health and safety violation, but the Sydney crowd didn't seem to mind, and on the contrary got behind it.

​The U16 boys 4X100 relay  team demonstrated the indomitable power of a well orchestrated unit, taking out first place, and running a QLD record in 42.96 seconds. Our very own super star, Ashley Wong ran an awe inspiring second leg, pushing himself to the absolute limit, a gleam of fire in his eye, that was plainly evident to all the onlookers. Bravo Ash, and bravo to the rest of the U16 relay team.

Ashley Wong, third standing from the left, thinking that maybe 400m reps were worth it.

The good news doesn't stop there ladies and gentlemen. On the contrary, it seems the roar of the Tigers permeated every corner of the Athletics stadium, with the U20 men's 4X100m squad winning the gold medal, with a time of 42.63 seconds. Our very own Tiger, Samuel McArthur ran the first leg in a heart stopping performance. He was clearly a man on a mission, the baton becoming an extension of his being. Surely his speed must have compromised the integrity of his spikes? The club will have to inquire. 

Sam McArthur, fourth from the left thinking of his next cheat meal.

Another notable performance from today includes Brandon Falconer in the U20 men's Triple Jump Event, jumping a distance of 13.70m. The field was tough, and Brandon competed valiantly.   Additionally, Mikayla Hand, in the U16 women's Long Jump Event jumped a distance of 5.01m. I know I couldn't perform such a feat. A great achievement. Bravo to these two tigers and look forward to seeing where the sport takes them next. 

Brandon launching himself into the fray. Bravo!

Mikayla taking flight. Great effort.

Day 2 has come to a close but the action is going to continue all week long. To keep continually updated, follow the below socials:
Instagram: qutathleticsclub
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/qutathleticsclub/
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Been a pleasure once again. 

Yours truly, 
​Daniel Jebb
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Our two Tigers, thinking of something clever/witty to say to their coach Travis Venema.