COUNTING COST OF LIFE AT THE TOP

With two international meets on the horizon, star junior athlete Caleb Kilpatrick is looking for support, both emotionally and financially.

Kilpatrick, 16, and three other Geelong athletes will represent the region and the nation at the World Athletics under-20 championships in August in Lima, Peru. Part of a 69member contingent, the locals include Tiana Boras (triple jump), Amali Butcher (100m hurdles), Darcy Giddings (discus) and Kilpatrick in the 4x400m relay.

“(It) includes some of the best athletes in Australia, so it will be exciting to be in the team,” Kilpatrick said.

The world juniors are held every two years, so the teenager is a chance of going again in 2026.

Kilpatrick, following his recent win in the under-18 400m at the national athletics championships, will also represent the country at the Oceania Championships in Fiji in June, along with Geelong products in 200m runner Mia Gross and Boras, who have made the senior team.

The only local athlete from Geelong in the under-18 category to compete, the Year 11 student will need to study between races as exams start at the end of the competition.

However, with great talent has come even greater financial responsibility.

“I am really grateful to be selected to compete for Australia, but it is really expensive,” Kilpatrick said.

Costing about $10,000 to attend both events, including travel, training camps and uniforms, it’s often the reality for young athletes plying their trade both home and abroad.

However, the quartet will conduct some fundraising before Peru with any local support greatly appreciated. In a statement, Geelong Athletics said the Peru championships provided an important development opportunity for all of the athletes, recognising their hard work and commitment.

Kilpatrick, who has long admired the achievements of 400m runners Cathy Freeman and Steve Solomon, thanked his coach Joe Gulli and his parents for their unwavering support, plus his local club Geelong Guild and Geelong Athletics. He said he always tried to enjoy himself, as competition can be difficult and the 400m one of the toughest events to master.

“Running a ‘PB’ or winning a race only happens when you do the hard work outside of competitions,” he said. Kilpatrick is hoping to follow in the footsteps of other local athletes by attending a US college after high school, with plenty of opportunities for track and field stars within the system. He is also receiving support from the Injury Clinic’s Athlete Development Program, which aids with strength and conditioning and is essential to his track performance and injury prevention.

To donate, contact Geelong Athletics at geelongathletics @gmail.com