Primary school children throughout Victoria relished the opportunity to celebrate the Olympic spirit by participating in a series of athletics carnivals held during the London 2012 Olympic Games.

Over 700 students were running, jumping and throwing as part of the Prime Minister’s Olympic Challenge, an initiative that tapped into the spirit of the London 2012 Olympic Games.

Events were held across the state in partnership between Athletics Victoria, Little Athletics Victoria and the Active After-school Communities (AASC) Program.

There were 15 schools that participated in the carnivals at their local athletics centres. They were provided with the opportunity to try a number of activities that developed the basic skills of track and field, in a fun safe and inclusive environment, giving many children their first look at an athletics track.

Children travelled from rural towns like Axedale to share in the fun and excitement. Children of Shepparton swapped the Javelin for a vortex, the students of Bendigo leaped that extra metre after being inspired by silver medal long jumper, Mitchell Watt and in Werribee children raced and jumped each other to be the next Sally Pearson or Steve Solomon.

The series of carnivals provided a great opportunity for children to be introduced to a range of local sporting clubs, just in time for the up and coming little athletics season.

Ballarat Little Athletics President, Shane Bicknell, was thrilled with the exposure his centre received saying, “The kids and teachers really enjoyed the day and we hope we have encouraged a few to become great little athletes of the future!”

This initiative demonstrated the important links between schools and local sporting clubs that have aligned goals to get more children involved in sport. Although schools have traditionally held athletics days independently, this event provides a fantastic example of how sport can be delivered strategically.