In a season defined by a renaissance in Australian sprinting, it is a 14-year-old from Perth who is emerging as the brightest of sparks in the junior ranks. Emilia Reed might still be in high school, but on the track, she’s etching her name into the history books.
Just last month, the quietly spoken teenager ran the fastest ever 100m by an Under-16 Australian girl, knocking off the record set in 2020 by the nation’s fastest woman in history, Torrie Lewis. The Perth teen clocked an impressive 11.49 (+1.9) to place her on a steep trajectory.
“It honest felt amazing. All the hard work that me and my coach (Aaron Bresland) put in over the season, it just paid off, and the fact that it was Torrie Lewis’ record, made it even more special,” Reed said.
It’s not just the times she’s running that are turning heads, but her composure too. At 14, Emilia isn’t rushing anything. She speaks with the focus you would expect from a seasoned athlete, even when reflecting on a breakthrough summer.
Last year, she won gold at the Australian Athletics Championships but missed on the 100m title by a single thousandth of a second – 11.956 to 11.955. This year, on her home track, she returns with sights set on going one better.
“To win both would be a dream come true, but I just want to run a PB in both. It’s the pinnacle of the season, so I’ll just see what happens,” she says.
Though athletics has taken centre stage this season, the 14-year-old balances her running with surf club and is looking forward to diving back into that world next summer. But for now, it’s all about training and school, with a few assessments left before the term’s end.
“I’m a definitely a bit nervous for Perth, but more excited than anything. I’ve been looking forward to Nationals all season, not just because it’s been a good one for me but because it’s here in Perth,” she said.
For all her speed, Emilia isn’t in a rush. Despite making headlines this year, she isn’t making any bold predictions but instead running with joy, purpose, with a little nod to juniors who’ve become something of legends.
“Torrie’s always something I’ve looked up to. She’s so hard working. I’ve never seen anyone like her. It’s crazy to think that maybe I could be like her one day.”
With her talent and worth ethic, Emilia is one to watch at this year’s Australian Athletics Championships. And as she lines up in front of a home crowd that will include her whole family, she’s focussed on what she does best – running and having fun.
The Australian Athletics Championships are the final stop of the Chemist Warehouse Summer Series, and is supported by the WA Government through Tourism WA, as well as Venues West and Athletics West.
By Sascha Ryner, Australian Athletics
Posted: 6/4/2025
