Local Sports Star: Branson Po wins gold at Australian Athletics Championships
Despite multiple injuries in the lead-up to a national tournament, talented young athlete Branson Po fought hard to overcome the setbacks to win gold at the 2019 Australian Athletics Championships. Read his inspirational story.
Despite multiple injuries in the lead-up to a national tournament, talented young athlete Branson Po fought hard to overcome the setbacks to win gold at the 2019 Australian Athletics Championships.
One of Liverpool City Little Athletics Centre’s most recent recruits, the 13-year-old from Bonnyrigg Heights took up sprinting to have fun with friends, but has already enjoyed success at state and national competitions.
It hasn’t come without resilience, determination and a commitment to the sport that has had observers marvelling at the teen’s achievements since joining the Liverpool organisation last year.
“At the start of this year I injured both of my hamstrings twice and at the (Little Athletics) State Championships I took a fall and injured my calf,” Branson said.
As training took a back seat, the youngster said his “toughest challenge” was overcoming these limitations to win a medal.
Branson placed first in the 100m sprint and won gold, a victory made sweeter by the hurdles along the way.
The teen is now aiming even higher.
“My ultimate goal is to be the best I can be, particularly in the 100m and maybe in 200m as well — to break the world record and earn gold medals at the Olympics,” he said.
He thanked his coach and parents for their invaluable support.
“I wouldn’t have done it without my coach Jerry Boateng, who is always helping me improve without skipping any details. And my parents, who had provided the funding to train and attend meets (and) who also took me to the meets and watched me run.”
Branson has been nominated for a Local Sports Star award in the Junior Sports Star Individual category.
The competition is sponsored by Featherdale Wildlife Park and Bankstown Sports.
Nominate at localsportsstars.com.au.
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