MIDLAND sprinter Rudy Kocis is set to take on some of the best athletes from around the globe this week at the World Masters Athletics Championships.
Over 4000 athletes will descend on the WA Athletics Stadium in Floreat and Ern Clark Athletics Centre in Cannington from Wednesday until next Sunday.
Mr Kocis (55) hopes the home ground advantage will work in his favour.
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READ NOW“Many of the athletes competing in this championship have come from Olympic and international level,” he said.
“So it is going to be pretty difficult to win.”
Mr Kocis resurrected his running career in 2010, after an absence of 26 years, having been a former junior state runner.
Since starting his campaign, Mr Kocis has set records in the 60m sprint as well as winning gold medals at state and national level in the 100m and 200m sprint events, but this will be his first world championships attempt.
“I am currently ranked around fourth for both events,” he said.
“I will be competing in the M55 (55-60 year old) age group, with the goal of making the final in both events.
“I’ll need a little luck to make a podium finish, but you never know!”
Mr Kocis has also nominated himself in the men’s 4x100m relay team, which will be held on the final day of competition.
Entry is free for spectators at both stadiums.
Visit www.perth2016.com for more information.