12.08.2009

Steve Hooker to lead Australian Flame in Berlin

Athletes around the nation will aspire to become a member of the Australian Flame, following the launch of the official team name for the Australian athletics team in Berlin today.

It was also announced that Beijing Olympic pole vault champion Steve Hooker will be the inaugural captain of the Australian Flame for the 12^th IAAF World Championships which commence in Berlin, Germany this Saturday (For an update on Hooker’s preparation, please see release to come).

The new name, brand and logo reflects the history of Australian athletics.

President of Athletics Australia, Mr Rob Fildes OAM, said at today's official launch it was an iconic symbol that would bring together all members of Australia’s track and field team.

“We wanted a name that united all members of the athletics team and sport under one inspirational icon,” Fildes said.

“If there is one symbol that can unite our athletes and athletics generally, it is the Flame.

“Just like our elite track and field athletes, the Flame embodies strength, spirit, unity and a burning desire to conquer all challengers.

“It brings hopes of scorching performances, athletes burning up the track and field and blistering results across the nation and around the world.

“The 46 athletes chosen to represent Australia at these world championships will be the first to wear the Flame logo, launching what we hope will become a strong tradition of achievement for all future members of the team.

Fildes also noted that the new brand will open up a number of commercial opportunities for the sport.

“The athletics team needed an independent identity outside of the Olympic and Commonwealth Games teams.  A brand that people can relate to and that will grow into a property that Athletics Australia can sell to a sponsor.

“In athletics you compete as an individual but you cannot make it on your own. We want to promote Australia’s success as a team and begin to develop a team culture.

“A team name provides a visible pinnacle to the pathway of athletics, which is important in growing the participation base across the nation.”

Steve Hooker, who also captained the Australian athletics team at last year’s Beijing Olympics alongside walker Jane Saville, said he was looking forward to leading the 46-member Australian Flame into competition at the world championships.

“For me it’s very exciting. In the Australian outback the flame is a sign of renewal and I think this is a young, rejuvenated athletics team and it’s very exciting times moving forward. I think it’s the most talented athletics team that I’ve ever been a part of.

“I think the Flame is very synonymous with athletics. For me the obvious connotation is with the Olympic Games and the Olympic Flame.

“I think it’s a very strong team name, it’s inspirational. I think it’s something that will capture the imagination of kids in Australia and hopefully the general public at large.

“The team now has a name and identity and I’m sure with the group of athletes we currently have and the up and coming athletes in Australia, the team is going to grow in character over the years to come.”

The 12^th IAAF World Championships will be held in Berlin from August 15 – 23.