Clyde Grammar Year 4 student, Annabelle, has achieved a dream that’s been years in the making, taking second place in the 2km 9/10-year-old girls’ event at the SSV State Cross Country Championships and earning herself a place on Team Vic for the upcoming National Championships.
Belle finished a mere 0.7 seconds behind first place in a thrilling finish.
Her strong performance means she will represent both Victoria and Clyde Grammar at the National competition on the Gold Coast this September.
“I was happy for the person who came first because we both worked hard and we are friends from Little Athletics, even though we don’t go to the same school,” Belle said.
The road to the State Championships was a long one, requiring qualification through District, Division and Regional competitions.
Belle’s preparation combined running with strength training and a holistic focus on rest and nutrition.
She is supported by coaches Dean McCaughan, Adam Bocor and Kuldeep Aukalh, and credits her P.E. teacher, Mr Pretty, for encouraging participation and making school sport opportunities possible.
Running has always come naturally to Belle, whose parents say she may have “skipped learning to walk and gone straight to running.”
Alongside cross country, she also plays basketball for fun and to build teamwork skills.
For Belle and her family, this moment is especially meaningful.
“It’s a very proud moment as parents and a dream that Belle has had for a long time,” her mum said.
“It feels good to know her hard work and dedication have paid off.”
Belle says she draws inspiration from Australian Olympian Jessica Hull and from a quote that hangs in her room, by Michael Jordan: “Obstacles don’t have to stop you. If you run into a wall, don’t turn around and give up. Figure out how to climb it, go through it or work around it.”
Clyde Grammar Principal, Mrs Leanne Evans, said Belle’s success reflects the values the school encourages in all students.
“Belle’s achievement is impressive not just for the physical effort and talent it reflects, but for the humility, perseverance and kindness she has shown throughout her journey,” she said.
“She’s a wonderful role model for our students. We are so proud to support her as she prepares to represent Victoria and Clyde Grammar on the national stage.”
Belle’s family said that while they’re proud of the medal, they’re most moved by the way she carried herself during the event.
“Watching her take second place with humility and grace at the State Championship after seeing the photo finish result made us prouder than any medal ever could.”
