ALAC 2014 Melbourne results and photos

29 Apr 2014 by Little Athletics Victoria


Important Update: Official ALAC 2014 Melbourne photos are now available at www.kidsklix.com.au. The Event/User ID is alac and the password is 2014. Enjoy!

The weather forecast had promised howling wind and driving rain all day on Saturday, so it was a huge relief when the sky dawned overcast, still and dry. The sun was actually trying to peek through the clouds as the final venue set-up was completed and the officials and teams started to arrive at Lakeside Stadium.

The Opening Ceremony got underway at 8:30am as the Rats of Tobruk Memorial Pipes and Drums led all of our State Little Athletics teams around the track for the Teams March Past. Each of the teams, led by their team captains proudly carrying State banners, looked fantastic in their respective track suits. After a reading of the athlete and official oaths and the National Anthem, ALAC 2014 Melbourne was declared open by Little Athletics Australia President Derek Fineburg.

The competition throughout the day was outstanding in every aspect – from the athletes to the officials and volunteers right down to the basket carriers and team runners. The athletes gave it their absolute all for their team mates and supporters. Individual medals were up for grabs, however, the greater glory of the ALAC has always been the team trophies on offer. State rivalry is certainly a fantastic motivator!

The weather did eventually take a turn for the worse after lunch, but on came the ponchos and on went the event. Some of the more warmer climate State teams did look a bit cold, but it certainly didn’t dampen their on-track performances. The crowd also put in a strong performance despite the wintery conditions, with many out-of-State families in Melbourne to cheer on their kids. For those that stayed at home the live action was broadcast online through Little Athletic Australia’s live streaming channel. This was a great addition to the event and the footage will be made available to view in the next few days.

After over 7 hours of competition and over 40 medal ceremonies, the ALAC 2014 Melbourne was officially brought to a close with the presentation of the trophies. The winners of this year’s event were as follows:

LANSW – Trevor Billingham trophy
LAVIC – Life Members trophy
LAQLD – Alan Triscott trophy
LATAS – Dick Healy Trophy

A massive congratulations and thank you to not only the winning state teams, but all the athletes who competed at the championships. Each and every one of them helped to make the event the success it was. They represented their teams like true champions and made their states very proud. A big cheer must also go to each of the state’s team management who have worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make sure their athletes had an ALAC to remember.

Finally, a very special mention to the mighty Team Victoria! Awesome stuff team! One more chant please?!

Full results are now available from the following link: http://bit.ly/SyrVId

Please note: Event photos and the live stream footage will be available later this week.