Australia Cup

Brisbane hosted the team focussed Cup on Saturday. Aside from school competitions, there is never a focus on the state or team. Australia Cup offered an opportunity for a little more camaraderie for our State. I enjoyed cheering for my fellow Queenslanders in each event.

Victoria and Queensland were separated by a mere 4 points with only the long jump remaining. In my absence, Jacinta Boyd was our Queensland jumper and Jeanette Bowles was representing Victoria. Jacinta arrived at the event late as she was required to attend a drug test. I would find this type of time pressure to warm-up unsettling and Jacinta did well to take it in her stride. Jacinta landed a few solid jumps early and as the competition progressed she began to run better on the runway with some touches to the foul board as a result.

Jeanette Bowles was sitting in 5th place after her final jump which meant if Jacinta could hit the board and finish first Queensland would tie with Victoria. Jacinta again ran well on the runway and hit the foul board. Victoria won overall edging out Queensland by just 2.5 points.

I experienced the day from the other side of the fence as co-manager of the Queensland team, alongside Paul di Bella. Admittedly each reminded me how fun competing in Australia is so I’m really looking forward to my season debut in Canberra next weekend. Unfortunately I’ve only had a few solid weeks of consistent training due to a few niggles and injuries so I was unable to compete in the Australia Cup. The fabulous conditions and the good performances had me a little envious as I watched on.

Congratulations to all the competitors who took part in the Australia Cup and thanks to all the individuals and organisations who supported the event.