Heptathlon state champion

Glen Waverley Year 9 student, Nela Debicki, has recently won the Under 16 gold medal in heptathlon, at the Victorian Open Track and Field Championships. Nela achieved three personal bests in javelin, 200 metre sprint, and high jump, and following her win has been invited to compete at the Australian Athletics Championships in Brisbane, to be held later this year. After an injury-filled season, Nela was incredibly proud of herself for winning the gold medal.

Going into the competition she was hopeful she would be placed, but the 14 year old never dreamt she could win. When she realised she was leading the field at the end of day one, her attitude changed and she became determined to take home the gold medal. Knowing she is now the state champion is overwhelming and she could not be prouder of herself, saying, “It was very satisfying to finally see all that hard training pay off”.

The heptathlon comprises seven events - 90 metres hurdles, high jump, shot put, 200 metres, long jump, javelin throw and 800 metres - with Nela’s favourite event being the 90 metres hurdles. She enjoys the thrill of competing in athletics, and the camaraderie with her team-mates in the Wesley College Firsts’ team and at Athletics Waverley.

Nela considers being the state champion to be her greatest sporting achievement, and she is looking forward to competing in Brisbane and meeting competitors from different states who share her passion.

Wesley College congratulations Nela on a fantastic achievement.