HALLS Head runner Lynne Choate is gearing up to take part in her eleventh World Masters Athletics championships when it starts in Perth this Wednesday.
It is only the third time the event has been held in Australia with more than 4000 athletes over 35 years of age and 3000 supporters involved in the massive competition.
Choate has been competing as a sprinter in the event for more than 24 years and has won 25 medals, eight in individual sprints and 17 in relays.
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READ NOWIn 2010, she was named Australia’s best masters’ sprint athlete and has been a national champion on many occasions.
The Seascapes mother of three and former Mandurah Catholic College maths teacher competes in 100m and 200m individual races and relays.
Choate has been training four to five times a week recently, after having a six-month lay off earlier this year because of a plantar fasciitis foot injury.
As well as competing in the women’s 60-64 category, Choate said she was looking forward to catching up with fellow athletes from Australia and overseas that compete in the bi-annual championships.
“It’s great that the event is being held in Perth as I don’t have to travel for a change,” she said.
Event director David Budge said plans were on track to deliver a great event.
“It will be a fantastic spectacle,” he said.
“We’re expecting to see an impressive mix of former Olympians, world record holders as well as a handful of participants who are over 95 years old, all vying for the coveted title of world champion.”
Lyn Ventris, 2011 and 2012 IAAF Female Masters Athlete of the Year winner and world record holder, said she was excited to compete in her home city.
“I’m looking forward to competing in a new age group and producing my best times at a world class athletics event with a hometown advantage and a beautiful city and state to showcase,” she said.
The opening ceremony will be held at Elizabeth Quay tomorrow with the competition being held at various venues throughout Perth until November 6.
For more details, visit www.Perth2016.com. Free admission for spectators.