Another race, another medal for Alesha Bennetts.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The Mudgee native recently competed at the National All Schools Championships in Perth, and although she was only aiming for a personal best (PB), she got more than she bargained for taking silver in the under 16 girls 400m sprint with a PB.
Although it was her first time competing at the High School equivalent to the PSSA Nationals, which she competed at in 2017, Bennetts says the event was more than just a race.
"It was a really fun, enjoyable and a great learning experience. It was the first time I have stayed on campus with my team and been responsible for myself," she said.
"I wasn't too worried about getting a podium spot, I was more focused on trying to get a PB, having fun and enjoying the experience."
Heading into the championships, Bennetts was well prepared but admits it wasn't until she had stepped foot on the track that she got into her zone.
"I had a positive mindset going into the competition. I knew I had trained hard and tried to eat well, sleep well and stay hydrated," Alesha said.
"In the morning I hung out with my team friends and they kept my mind off the race. I started to focus when I warmed up.
"I felt nervous when I arrived at the track, but once I marshalled and was on the track for the race, I stayed calm and focused.
I knew that I had tough competition on my inside so I knew I had stay with those girls on the bends, which I did. The final outcome was awesome as I didn't expect a podium finish.
"I felt really proud as I had worked hard and I achieved my goal at the championships, to run a PB."
Alesha now has her sights set on the NSW Junior Championships and "hopefully" the Australian Junior Championships in February and April, 2020.
I would like to thank all those people who took time out of their day to watch me run a lap around an oval and end up in the same spot.
- Alesha Bennetts
"I really appreciated all the messages of encouragement and support. I also really need to thank all my Mudgee support crew including my Mudgee coach Justine and my Mudgee Little A's training crew."