Merriwa Little Athletics boasted the largest contingent with 28 athletes pulling on their distinctive white and black tops for what proved to be a fabulous day.

Merriwa’s Jack Purcell and Mitchell Maben had a very successful carnival with Purcell powering home to victory in the 50m, 70m and 200m then third in discus and long jump. 

Maben discovered throws and the longer running events were his forte receiving a bronze for his efforts in the 200m, first in discus and second in long jump.

Rachel and Rhianna Hunt, of Merriwa, took part in their first carnival with Rachel placing second in every event to team mate Darcy Taaffe while sister Rhianna excelled placing second in 70m and equal second in high jump. 

Merriwa’s Grace Campbell was on fire in the running events, chipping away at her arch rivals heels Olivia Clegg of Tamworth all day to finally pull in a “gold” winning effort in the 100m. 

Jorji Taaffe won all but one of her five events against Erin Ryan, of Muswellbrook, in the under-13s.

Ben Patterson was over the moon to make it past his personal best in high jump, winning this event as well as the 70m, 100m, 400m closely followed by Levi King, of Scone, who took out the shot put with a throw of 6.09m. 

Cody Bates, of Merriwa, won the trifecta – 100m, 200m and 400m - and equal first in long jump while team mate Dylan Keane blitzed the sprints taking home gold in the 100m, 200m and silver in triple. 

Merriwa’s Thomas Hunt scored second in shot and a bronze in the 800m while Jeremy Clarke put in a powerful performance to claim the 800m and second in the 100m and triple. 

Merriwa Little Athletics president Tash Taaffe said she was thrilled with the athletes’ performances from start to finish. 

“We have so much depth in our team and that really showed at Aberdeen,” she explained.

“Our senior athletes are starting to hit their straps not only in their chosen events but are also showing outstanding leadership.

“Thomas Hunt, Jeremy Clarke, Cody Bates and Dylan Keane more often than not were out on the track cheering the juniors on at every race, running alongside the ones that drifted behind. 

“This is the reason why I believe going away to events is so important. 

“It develops the feeling of being part of a team, gives athletes an opportunity to push their own limits and a chance to be a mentor and support to others.

“It also helps athletes gain an understanding of what to do when they get nervous, recognise how their body responds and then use those nerves to their advantage.

“And, that is a good skill to have, not only in athletics but in life.”

Taaffe thanked the Aberdeen Little Athletics Club for putting on such a wonderful event. 

Athletes are now gearing up for the 2018 Hunter Zone Championships in Cessnock on December 1 and 2.