The 2024 NSW All Schools Championships were a showcase of exceptional talent and determination, with Wests Track and Field athletes Kenewa Gamanga, Sienna Vassella, Grace Beck, Alex Sinnett, Toby Camilleri, Jemma Camilleri, Siena Mace, Maisie Mitchell, Lily Stewart, Sarah Baker, and Samuel Kay delivering outstanding performances and securing medals in their respective events.
Kenewa Gamanga
At just 14 years old, Kenewa has already established himself as a formidable sprinter. Competing in the 100m and 200m events, he clinched gold medals (1st) in both, becoming the NSW champion in these categories. His impressive times and technique have earned him the top ranking in Australia and among the top 10 globally for his age group. Kenewa’s performances at the championships were nothing short of spectacular, solidifying his status as a rising star in track and field. His times were:
- 100m: 11.19 seconds (wind: +1.2 m/s)
- 200m: 22.75 seconds (wind: -4.2 m/s)
Kenewa is coached by Wests Track and Field Coach Fred Martin, a 1984 Olympian, whose guidance has been instrumental in his development and success.
Sienna Vassella
Sienna shone brightly in the 13 years girls category, showcasing her exceptional talent across multiple events. Her remarkable achievements include:
- Gold medal (1st) in 100m: 12.35 seconds (wind: -1.9 m/s)
- Silver medal (2nd) in 200m: 25.27 seconds (wind: -0.3 m/s)
- Gold medal (1st) in Long Jump: 5.42m
Sienna is currently ranked 2nd in Australia in the 100m and 3rd in Australia for the 200m in her age group. She is coached by her mother, Jane Jamieson, a former Australian Commonwealth Games Heptathlon Gold and Silver Medalist. Jane’s experience and dedication have been a source of inspiration, guiding Sienna to excel in multiple events and instilling in her the values of hard work and perseverance. In addition to her medal-winning performances, Sienna also competed in Discus, Javelin, and Shotput, demonstrating her versatility and dedication.
Grace Beck
Grace excelled in the 16 years girls 5000m Race Walk, clinching a gold medal (1st) with an outstanding display of endurance and technique.
Alex Sinnett
Alex showcased his endurance and technique in the 16 years boys 5000m Race Walk, securing a gold medal (1st). He is coached by Marilyn Pearson, whose guidance has been pivotal in his success.
Toby Camilleri
Toby delivered a powerful performance in the 19 years boys Javelin 800g, securing a gold medal (1st) with a throw of 53.60m. He is coached by Rhys Stein, whose expertise has been crucial in his development.
Jemma Camilleri
Jemma showed her prowess in the 15 years girls Javelin Throw 500g, earning a silver medal (2nd) with a throw of 40.83m. She is also coached by Rhys Stein, whose expertise has been instrumental in her development.
Siena Mace
Siena demonstrated her versatility and strength in the javelin throw. Competing in the 500g javelin event, she showcased her powerful throwing ability, securing a silver medal (2nd) with a throw of 42.66m. Her dedication to training and her ability to perform under pressure were evident in her impressive results. Siena is coached by Hassan Rasheed, whose expertise has been crucial in honing her skills and achieving success. Her achievements at the championships highlight her potential to excel in field events at higher levels of competition.
Maisie Mitchell
Maisie demonstrated her skill in the 15 years girls 3000m Race Walk, earning a silver medal (2nd) with a strong performance.
Lily Stewart
Lily showcased her versatility by placing 3rd in both the 17 years girls 100m Hurdles (14.92 seconds with a +1.3 m/s wind) and Triple Jump events.
Sarah Baker
Sarah excelled in the middle-distance events, competing in both the 1500m and 3000m races. Despite facing tough competition, she delivered strong performances in both events, earning bronze medals (3rd). Her times were:
- 1500m: 4:37.92 minutes
- 3000m: 9:58.53 minutes
Samuel Kay
Samuel demonstrated his agility and speed in the 16 years boys 400m Hurdles, securing a bronze medal (3rd) with a time of 57.22 seconds. He is coached by his mother, Deb Walsham, whose support and guidance have been crucial to his success.
By placing in the top 2 in their respective events, Kenewa, Sienna, Grace, Alex, Jemma, Siena, and Maisie have qualified for the Australian All Schools Championships in Brisbane this December. We wish them the best of luck!
Wests Track and Field, with a rich history spanning 120 years, has been home to numerous Olympians and Australian World representatives, and continues to foster exceptional talent. The success of these athletes at the 2024 NSW All Schools Championships is a testament to their hard work, talent, and the excellent coaching they receive. Their achievements not only bring pride to their club but also inspire young athletes to pursue excellence in their respective events.
