By Jacob Despard

Last week, the club farewelled OVA Southern Saint Jacob Despard and his other colleagues as the head off to the World Junior Championships in Oregon, USA. It’s been a long build up for Jacob, Sam and Jesse prior to their departure, but the club wishes all three athletes the best of luck as they represent their country. Jacob has taken some much valued time out of his busy schedule to write for the OVA Southern Saints, and here’s what he had to say:

”Hey Guys! I've arrived safely in Vancouver where the weather is very similar to Tasmania in Summer! I had my first competition this weekend. It was a very successful competition considering it was 3 days after a 14 hour flight. In the 100m i came 3rd in my heat in a time of 10.99, which got me into the final. In the final i ran 10.88 (-1.1) to go away with the win! The next day was the 200m which was a straight final, i ran a good race and came away with 2nd place in a time of 21.63 which is 0.01 off my personal best time. I am now preparing for the Harry Jerome Classic which is on Tuesday!”

The club thanks Jacob for the update to his progress while he's away, congratulate him on his results thus far, and wish him the best of luck for Tuesday.