By Olivia Condous
A young Melton athlete claimed two gold medals for Victoria at the Coles Australian Little Athletics Championships, held last weekend.
Nelson Banigo, who trained with Bacchus Marsh Little Athletics, was part of the winning Under 13 boys team for the 4×100 metre and medley relay events.
The Melton Christian College student also came fourth in the individual 100m race, missing out on a medal by 0.06 seconds.
Nelson said it felt “really good” to represent Victoria in the events, as well as his coach and his family.
“I’ve never competed at a national competition before and it’s great to medal at my first one,” he said.
“My dad was here to watch me and the rest of the family watched on livestream.”
Nelson was one of 43 athletes under the age of fifteen chosen to represent the state at the event.
Coles Little Athletics Australia president Sherrie Boulter said it was great to have the championship event back after a two-year hiatus due to COVID.
“The event has been sorely missed by everyone and to have our best Under 13 and Under 15 athletes competing for their state once again is extremely important for the Little Athletics pathway and for kids to showcase their talent on a national stage,” Ms Boulter said.
Coles corporate affairs general manager Sally Fielke said the company was proud to sponsor the event.
“We’ve loved watching the camaraderie between the young athletes and the rivalry between the states throughout the two-day event.”
