Forest Lake State High School students Lola and Dave will compete in the 2024 Australian All Schools Athletics Championships after outstanding performances in the State Championships earlier this year.
Year 8 student Dave received gold at States after he broke the championship long jump record and placed 4th in the 100m.
Inspired by his older brother, Dave began practising long jump in 2022, and his journey began after he accidentally signed up for the MetWest trials.
Lola, who received silver in the 400m and bronze in the 800m, said this latest achievement was even more special than securing silver at last year’s State Championships.
“To make nationals when it’s here in our own state is just great, and it was a really tough race as well,” Lola said.
“Nothing in the race went to plan -with one lap to go, the pack was very tight, I almost got tripped but I managed to find a gap and get through.”
Lola’s mum Susie Bryant is thankful for the role that the school have played in her daughter’s achievements.
“The principal is very involved, and the school opens the gym for her to do her training,” Susie said.
Lola appreciates the part the community has played in her achievements, including the Flying Eagles Running Club, who meet in Meadowbrook where she trains.
“I’m grateful to the Eagles, and my coach, Tony Baker, who has helped me improve and get me to where I am today,” she said.
Moving forwards, Lola would love to keep challenging herself by setting new goals.
“I would love to go to the Olympics when I’m older,” Lola said, and cited the Queensland Athletics competition in April as another event on the horizon.
The 2024 Chemist Warehouse Australian All Schools Athletics Championships
will take place at the Queensland Sport and Athletics Centre in Mount Gravatt from December 6 – December 8.
