From Little Things Big Things Grow
Watching the junior members of the Orange Runners Club improve and grow in stature over the years has been very rewarding. In the last decade there have been some incredibly talented people who have started out as “Wednesday Joggers”, and emerged as State runners. Nathan Sutherland, Dan Bruton, Todd Lang and Chris (Fine) Cotton, are just a few that spring to mind. Having left their mark, these lads have now moved over to make way for the new kids on the block, who are also starting to impress wherever they go. Brothers, Connor and Noah Whiteley, Kyle Ostini, Joe Miller, Brandon Connelly and Kelsey Grey (a few that come to mind), are so keen they have already started planning their future, and stating very confidently what they wish to achieve. While nine year old Noah’s immediate plan is to lower his personal best time of 15:04 for the 3km circuit, Connor (11), who already has a PB of 11:16 would like to make it through to Little Athletics State Level for the second time. He may be well on the way, as he set two season best results at a recent Little “A’s” meet in Wellington.
Kelsey Grey who is no stranger to State events has already indicated she intends to represent Australia at the Olympic Games, firstly as a Hockeyroo and then in Athletics.
Joe Miller has been a constant improver this year, and in fact, has been moving too fast for me to ask what his ambitions are. Guess I’ll just have to wait for the results to be published. Kyle has achieved at State Level with his Cross Country running, and has also won his age division at several events. The same can be said for Brandon, who has achieved at Cross Country, Little “A’s”, and also won his age division at several Fun Runs. You have to start somewhere, and by setting small achievable goals and reaching them one at a time, you can evolve into whatever you wish to be. Remember, Champion Marathon Runner Kate Smyth was once a “Wednesday Jogger ’with the ORC.
While the club members do battle at Kinross Forest tomorrow, Frank Ostini, Brett Sammut and Mike Cooper will travel to The Entrance to run in the Central Coast Half Marathon. All three have been training in fine style and should acquit themselves well. This race will be their last half marathon before the Colour City Half on March 6th next year. Plans for that event are well on the way, with event co-ordinator Tricia Frost this week announcing that Care West Disability Day Program will be the recipient of funds raised by the event. Proceeds from the canteen will go to Anson Street School.
Lake Canobolas Results
Male 3k: Tony Fitzpatrick 14.01, Brandon Connolly 14.23, Stewart Vidler 14.28. Female: Pam Fullgrabe 18.01, Sophie Gordon 18.16, Rhonda Williams 18.26.
Male 6k: Nathan Sutherland 22.25, Tom Gleeson 22.45, Neil Williams 23.10. Female: Melissa Watson 25.19, Amber Rich 26.45, Karen Neal 27.07. Of the 44 who took part handicap honours went to Emily Pell. Whilst 65 runners took part on Wednesday with Joe Miller was the winner.
Wayne Stewart
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