Last weekend, I was privileged to be part of the Tasmanian team that competed at the Australian Cross Country Championships in Adelaide, SA. It was the first time they’ve been held in 3 years because of COVID.

There were 6 Tasmanians selected in each age group from 10-19 years. I knew some of them already through running, but we became such good friends in the team environment, representing our state.

My individual 3-kilometre race for the 11-year-old boys was the first event at the very muddy Oakbank Racecourse in the Adelaide Hills on Saturday. There were 6 states and one territory represented. I came 27^th out of the 42 competitors and was 2^nd for Tasmania.

This made me to first-leg runner for Tasmania for the 5 x 1500m relays on the Monday in West Beach, Adelaide. I loved being in the team event with my new friends. We all did our best and came 5^th. It was the most amazing experience and made the hard work of training all worth it.

Harry G