Young local runner embarks on journey to state cross country championships
YOUNG TALENT
Parker Lee, a talented nine-year-old student in year four at Saint Augustine's Mossman is gearing up to showcase his running skills at the upcoming Cross Country State Championships in Hervey Bay next week.
Joining him is a year twelve student from Mossman High School, forming a formidable team to represent Peninsula sport in the highly anticipated event.
The competition, known as the Queensland School Sport Cross Country running, will bring together top runners from across the state to compete for glory.
The way to the top
To secure their spots in the state championships, the boys competed locally, achieving top-three positions at their schools and earning nominations.
They then advanced to the district trials at Redlynch, where Parker faced fierce competition from over 50 ten-year-old boys.
His exceptional third-place finish secured his eligibility for the next stage and a highly sought-after spot on the Peninsula team.
Both Parker and his fellow Mossman representative are now eagerly preparing for their journey to Hervey Bay next week, where they will compete against some of the best cross country runners in the state.
The ultimate goal is to secure a position on the national team, a testament to their remarkable skills and dedication to the sport.
Parker told Newsport he feels really lucky to make the team.
"Making it to the team was a big goal for me this year, both for cross country and the track team," he shared.
"Since it was our first time trying out, making it on my first attempt was incredibly exciting.
"I know there will be many talented runners but I've been training hard with my coach Wally at Peak Performance Track Club.”
Passion for the sport
Parker's love for running started early when he and his twin brother joined a track club at the age of seven.
He enjoys the excitement of competition, even though he sometimes gets nervous.
“At first I get nervous but then I just try to stick to my plan,” he said. “Sometimes the other runners can push you or grab your shirt in cross country, it’s different to track running. But it’s fun to run against so many people.”
Parker and his family are grateful to local businesses, including Kye Chapple Pest Control and Blue Dive Port Douglas and Cairns, for their sponsorship.
Without their support, Parker wouldn't have been able to afford the costs associated with qualifying for the Peninsula team.
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