Monthly Newsletter – May 2026
Community connect
The Ballarat athletics community is built on support, teamwork, and a shared love of the sport. Whether you’re competing, coaching, volunteering, or cheering from the sidelines, you’re part of something bigger — a network of people who show up, help out, and celebrate each other’s efforts.
As we move into May and the start of our winter cross country season, we’re reminded that athletics in Ballarat is built on something deeper than competition—it’s built on community. With the track season now behind us and a strong finish through March & April’s championship events, we turn our focus to the months ahead where muddy shoes, fresh air, and shared effort bring us together in a different way. Whether you’re chasing goals or simply showing up each week, this season is about connection, support, and being part of something bigger. It’s the strength of our Ballarat community that carries us through. Every step of the way.
This newsletter’s purpose is to share highlights, recognise efforts, and keep everyone connected across our local athletics family. If you or your club would like to share achievements or updates, please email these to admin@athleticsballarat.com.au
For all things XCR this 25-26 season, please visit our Cross Country Season Page.
Follow the action
Volunteer highlight
Shane Bicknell
Shane is currently serving as President of Western Country Region Little Athletics (WCR), a role held for over 10 years, as well as WCR Competition Director. He is on the committee and Region Representative for Lucas Little Athletics Centre.
He contributes at both governance and operational levels through committee involvement and officiating.
He is an accredited World Athletics Bronze Referee and Bronze Racewalk Judge, as well as a Level 2 Development Coach and Kids Athletics Coach. He also supports the development of officials for Little Athletics Victoria.
He is actively involved in delivering competitions from local shield through to national level, including the Australian Little Athletics Championships. Zatopec and Maurie Plant.
On a profession side side, Shane is a senior accountant at RSM Australia, Ballarat.
What do you love about athletics?
That all abilities can be involved and that it brings families together.
What’s one thing people might be surprised to learn about you?
I’m a bit of a warbird nut and love old planes.
If you could give one tip to athletes (or parents), what would it be?
Enjoy the challenge and have fun on the journey.
What’s been your most memorable moment as a volunteer?
Seeing previous little athletes perform on the big stage at events like Zatopec and Maurie Plant. Ballarat Athletes are so talented and backed by some of the best coaches in Australia.
Through their Lens: AB Board Member
Matt Lenton I Athletics Ballarat & Ballarat Community Health
Hi there! I’m Matt – a (very) recreational runner in Ballarat, but more accurately described as a jogger who’s a fan of athletics. I started running a few years ago when the footy and cricket injuries started to pile up, and over that time have completed a few events from 5K up to the Marathon.
My favourite distance is the half marathon – because there’s usually just enough left in the tank to kick home at the finish line. Outside of running I love all sports, but particularly footy, cricket & golf – although it has been tough to be a Bomber’s fan for the last couple of years! (decades?). I’m a recent addition to the Athletics Ballarat Board and serve as the chair of the Finance Committee.
I’ve been working as an accountant for over 15 years, and specialise in Business Performance and Development in the health sector. It’s such an exiting time to be involved in athletics (particularly with the new track on the way), and I can’t wait to see more people getting involved in athletics in Ballarat!
Cross Country Season - Update
The Athletics Victoria XCR’26 races are not far away, and we are looking forward to another great year for the Ballarat Team.
As per previous years, the Athletics Ballarat will be sending teams to the XCR events comprising athletes from all four senior clubs. You can view more about the AV XCR season here: https://athsvic.org.au/xcr_2026/
MAIN EMAIL CONTACT
The following email address athleticsballaratcompetitions@gmail.com has been set up as the major point of contact and communication for all athletes and officials (BH, EUR, WEN & YCW) representing Ballarat in the AV XCR’26 competition.
Prior to each AV XCR’26 rounds, we will send out an email, asking you to respond with:
- Your availability to compete or filling out an Expression of Interest form (EOI)
- Your intention to travel or the requirement of a lift to the event
Additional information may include:
- Selected teams
- Departure and arrival times from and to Llanberris, for carpooling
- Photographs
When a response is requested, please return the form or an email promptly, so we know of your availability for selection and who may need travel requirements. We hope you are fit, healthy, running well and ready to make yourself available to be a valued member of the successful Ballarat Team and to help continue Ballarat’s individual and team success for the 2026 season.
ATHLETICS BALLARAT COMPETITION SINGLETS
All athletes competing across the AV XCR series will need to wear a NEW Athletics Ballarat singlet. These can be purchased from the Athletics Ballarat website https://athleticsballarat.com.au/shop/
If any athletes would like to try on a singlet prior to purchasing, please contact us at athleticsballaratcompetitions@gmail.com and arrangements can be made, most likely on a Thursday night.
We’re looking forward to an exciting Cross Country Season 2026!
Getting to know our athletes
How did you first get into athletics, and what keeps you coming back to the sport?
What’s your favourite event – and why does it stand out to you?
Do you have any pre-race rituals or superstitions?
The only thing I do before my race is do the sign of the cross, God is a key part of my life and he’s the person who helped me get this far and I want him to watch over me as I race. It gives me a mental boost.
What’s been your most memorable moment in athletics so far?
My first nationals in Perth 2025. The feeling of going to another state and competing just got me super excited because I am basically one of the best. I also got to make friends with NSW, QLD athletes who I still chat & communicate with till this day. The first nationals feeling is something I will always remember and cherish for a long time.
Who inspires you the most – either in athletics or in life?
What do you love most about being part of the Ballarat athletics community?
I love being part of Ballarat Athletics because everyone is so welcoming and kind, always encouraging participation which is what I love because it shows they value your presence and talent. The environment there is very chill and everyone looks like they’re enjoying yourselves (just dont run the 400.)
What’s your go-to meal or treat after a big meet or training session?
My favourite meal is definitely some Hungry Jacks, I get a meal called the super stunner which consists of Fries, Chicken Burger, Drink, Nuggets and Ice Cream! It’s become a tradition to get that every time now.
Athletics makes me feel...
What does a typical training week look like for you?
Upcoming Dates
MAY
XCR Round 1 (Lakeside Stadium)
Sunday May 10th
Registrations Close: Wednesday 6th May 2026, 11:59 am (Midday)
XCR Round 2 (XC:Relays)
Saturday May 16th
Registrations Close: Team event administrators - closes at Mon 11 May 2026 11:59
XCR Round 3 (XC:8 Bendigo)
Saturday May 30th
Registrations Close: 11:59am, Wednesday 27th May, 2026
JUNE
XCR Round 5 (XC:12)
Saturday June 13th
Entries Close: 11:59am, Wednesday 10th June, 2026
XCR Round 5 (R: Relays)
Sunday June 28th
Club administrators: registration for this event closes at Mon 22 Jun 2026 11:59.