Unstoppable stride

At just 11-years-old, Lucy Barnes has already proven herself as a force to be reckoned with on the running track.

After coming second in the state competition, she has secured a spot at Nationals in Canberra, an opportunity she is determined to make the most of.

Despite her disappointment at not winning the state competition, she quickly found solace in the fact that being second in the state and says it is still a remarkable achievement. ‘I always want to do my best and make my family proud.’

Lucy’s weekly schedule revolves around her passion for running and her commitment to improving her fitness. She dedicates several days a week to running and utilises a day for music practice, as well as a day of rest to recharge.

‘I also play Netball, Orienteering and Touch Football,’ she adds.

Her journey in running began when she was just six years old, inspired by her siblings who were participating in their own cross-country training. Ever since that moment, Lucy’s love for running has only grown stronger, and she has never looked back.

In her first-ever cross-country race, she finished second behind a boy, leading to a friendly rivalry between the two.

‘I remember having an argument with him at the end of the race, so I made sure I flogged him in every other race we competed against each other.’

To fuel her running performances, Lucy relies on her mother’s energy balls, which she consumes an hour before each race. She also has a favourite pre-race meal: Tuna Casserole the night before.

Despite the nerves that accompany big competitions like States and Nationals, Lucy views them as an opportunity to perform even better, using the butterflies in her stomach to fuel her speed.

With Nationals approaching in five weeks, Lucy has set her sights on a top-three finish, hoping to earn an individual medal. Having come

fourth last year, she is more determined than ever. ‘I got outsprinted last year, so I want to work on that and make sure I sprint harder.’

Though she’s done Orienteering in Canberra before, this will be her first experience competing in cross-country there.

Looking into the future, Lucy has a grand vision of participating in long distance running at the Olympics—an ambitious goal for a young athlete with such immense talent and dedication.

Lucy’s passion, drive and commitment to running serve as an inspiration not only to her peers but also to anyone looking to pursue their dreams.

With her focus on excelling at Nationals and her eyes set on a future at the Olympics, Lucy Barnes is undoubtedly a young athlete to watch out for in the world of running and we are so proud of her.