Bankstown’s LSS nominee Chris Alaelua catches the eye in Little Athletics
A quiet achiever, Chris Alaelua is rapidly making a mark for himself on the track.
BANKSTOWN’S Chris Alaelua is a rising star on the track, helping NSW 4x100 relay team capture the gold medal at the 2019 Coles Australian Little Athletics Championships.
Representing Bankstown Sports Little Athletics Centre, 13-year-old Chris gave NSW the perfect start in the first leg of the relay, which was enough to win the gold ahead of Victoria.
NSW clocked 47.07 seconds beating Victoria (48.01) and WA (48.92).
The others in the winning squad were Liam Coles, Angus Clues and Rashid Kabba.
Chris is this week’s nominee for the Junior Sports Star category in the Local Sports Stars Awards.
“I love representing my state and doing my best,” said Chris, who has a lot of self belief.
“I also play rugby league as a full back and rugby union as a winger but I prefer the running events.
“I like to tell those who are doing it tough, not don’t give up.
“Keep going and going and never say you can’t do it.
“Train hard and harder and learn and be yourself.
“Don’t let anyone change you.”
Chris is a record holder in the 200m, clocking 25.04 seconds to erase the old mark at the 2019 regional Little Athletics championships.
Chris, who thanked his family for their support, added a silver in the 100m at the same competition.
The East Hills Boys High School student also won the 100m and 200m at all schools championships.
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Little Athletics CEO Martin Stillman and Coles State GM Emma Bridges praised Chris for his outstanding efforts.
“We want to congratulate Chris for an outstanding achievement,” Ms Bridges said.
“To be in the national championships is impressive in itself, let alone win against all his competitors from other states.”
■ Local Sports Stars is proudly sponsored by Featherdale Wildlife Park and Bankstown Sports.
■ LSS categories include Inspiration, Team of Excellence and Service to Sport.
■ Nominate a young athlete at localsportsstars.com.au/newslocal.
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