Bargara and District Little Athletics and Gary Barton of Bundaberg were honoured for their outstanding contributions at the Coles Little Athletics Australia Awards recently.
Held on Saturday 26 April at The Pier Glenelg the awards night celebrated the achievements of former Little Athletes and the significant contributions of those internally involved in Coles Little Athletics Australia across a range of categories.
The Coles Little Athletics Australia Official of the Year Award went to Gary Barton of Bundaberg, Little Athletics Queensland.
Gary said he felt honoured to receive recognition after more than a decade of officiating.
“I owe a lot to the many mentors who have passed on their knowledge over those years,” he said
“I love being involved at all levels of Little Athletics and helping others to get the most out of their involvement with this amazing organisation, be they athlete, official or volunteer.
“With the 2032 Olympics and Paralympics coming to Brisbane, it’s exciting to see the next generation of Australian athletes coming through and watching them develop into potential Olympians.
“Little Athletics helps to build confidence, resilience, improve fitness and develop fundamental skills in running, throwing and jumping through weekly competitive events.
“With an emphasis on family values, community involvement and personal improvement, the program is designed to promote positive attitudes in all aspects of life for participants.”
The Bargara and District Little Athletics Centre was also showcased, winning the Queensland Coles Little Athletics Australia Centre of the Year Award – Inner Regional Category.
CEO of Coles Little Athletics Australia Myles Foreman said the ceremony showcased the positive impact Little Athletics had on individuals later in life in the wider Australian sporting community and beyond.
“Developing important life skills, such as teamwork and endurance, Little Athletics helps to prepare for success on and off the sporting field,” he said.
“As always, this year’s Ceremony was an opportunity to celebrate and hear of the impact of Little Athletics on our Inductees and Award winners and the enormous value that our focus on Family, Fun and Fitness as a Foundation for All Sports has in later life”.
