Junior Sports Star: Runner Zachariah Krayem’s resolves catches eye of Olympian Youcef Abdi

“It almost seems impossible until it’s done” is Zachariah Krayem’s mantra and what stokes the young runner’s determination to train at dawn each day.

Zachariah Krayem former Olympian and mentor Youcef Abdi. Picture: Rob Pozo

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“It almost seems impossible until it’s done” is Zachariah Krayem’s mantra.

It’s what stokes the young runner’s determination to train at dawn each day and complete regional cross country events — while fasting for Ramadan.

The 10-year-old from Condell Park only discovered he could run two years ago and has been striving to represent NSW — a goal he hopes to achieve next year.

Zachariah is already achieving state times. Picture: Rob Pozo

During a regular training session at Bankstown Sports Athletics Club, Zachariah’s resolve caught the eye of Olympic runner Youcef Abdi.

Abdi — a two-time steeplechase Olympian — has become a mentor for the young runner and says he hasn’t seen someone with his ambition in a long time.

“When I first saw him I didn’t take much notice because we get a lot of people coming to the track,” Abdi said.

“But then I kept seeing him week in and out and I was amazed by his attitude. When I started to see his improvement, I took interest because it was obvious he was keen to improve. It’s not easy in the beginning and he kept at it. He’s a determined little athlete.”

Junior Sports Star Zachariah Krayem. Picture: Rob Pozo

Zachariah has been nominated for the Junior Sports Star award, sponsored by Rebel.

The other JSS categories are Team Spirit, sponsored by SportsTG, Service to Sport and Young Sporting Spirit, sponsored by Simonds Homes.