04.05.2007

Jump Start to...Arafura!

Athletics Australia Jump Start to London indigenous squad is hoping to make its mark at the looming Arafura Games, to be held in the Northern Territory capital of Darwin from May 12-19.

The Arafura Games are held every two years, attracting a large number of athletes from a wide range of sports. An international competition, teams from Malaysia, Singapore and Papua New Guinea will also compete.

This year will also incorporate the 2007 Oceania Athlete with a Disability Championships.

Before travelling to Darwin the athletes will attend a camp at the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) where biomechanical and physiological tests will add a new dimension to their training environment.

Under the watchful eye of AIS staff the athletes will be presented lectures on nutrition, strength and conditioning and recovery and will also have their personal data analysed - before putting the methods into practice upon arrival in Darwin.

The squad includes:

Joshua Ahwong (QLD)  400/800
Peter Harrison (VIC)  200/400
Justin Evans (VIC)  400/800
Duan Daley (NSW)  100/200
Liam Gander (NSW)  100/200
Chris Mathees (WA - camp only)  110mh
Rodney Blair (NSW)  100/LJ/HJ
Peter Tuccandidgee (QLD)  200/400
Narelle Long (NT - camp only)  100/200
Brendan Peeters (QLD)  800
Amanda McLean (NT)  100/LJ
Sarah Mackaway (NSW - Games only)  100/200
Casey Narrier (WA)  HJ
Ray Williams (WA)  200/400
Tenika Demamiel (WA)  LJ/TJ
Jessica Peris (ACT)  100/200

Messages of support and encouragement for the athletes can be sent to Athletics Australia’s Development Manager Sally McGrady at sally.mcgrady@athletics.org.au

For further information on the Arafura Games, visit the official website here.

* Keep an out for the athlete diary during the Arafura Games