WAIS Track and Field Stars Set String of PB’s

WAIS track and field athletes enjoyed a weekend to remember with three scholarship holders setting new personal bests as the lead up to nationals intensifies.

Of most significance, 15 year-old Liz Parnov cleared 4.30m in the pole vault to set a new personal benchmark and A-qualifier.

The daughter of WAIS pole vault coach Alex Parnov also claimed victory in the Perth event ahead of fellow WAIS athlete Amanda Bisk who set a B-qualifier at 4.10m.

The golden summer for Jody Henry showed no sign of letting up after the 24 year-old set a new personal best of 23.68secs in the 200m, which also stands her as the fastest in Australia this term.

The Shoalwater resident has also been in good form in the 400m, making Henry a triple threat for national team selections, with relay spots available.

Emerging shot put talent Matt Cowie launched a new personal standard of 17.91m in dominating the local meet. The effort bettered his previous best by 35cm and inches him within nine centimeters of the Junior World Championships qualifiy mark.

Cowie’s progress since linking with WAIS coach – and field event specialist – Grant Ward has been noticeable, with the 19 year-old tipped to feature prominently at the up coming Age nationals.

WAIS hurdler Lyndsay Pekin ran second in the 200m hurdles whilst Larrisa Perry jumped 5.41m for second place in the long jump. Ellen Pettitt was unable to match her effort of 1.90m in the high jump, after entering the competition at 1.80m and Ben Offereins clocked 21.11secs in running fourth in the 200m sprint.

Perth will play host to the 2010 Australian Championships and Commonwealth Games Selection Trials from Friday 16 – Sunday 18 April at AK Reserve.