Lake Mac athletes set for International Children’s Games

Published on 22 March 2023

A team of 15 local swimmers and track and field athletes will represent Lake Mac and Australia at the International Children’s Games later this year in Korea.

The Games, to be held in the city of Daegu from 5-10 July, are recognised as the largest youth multi-sport event in the world, and are sanctioned by the International Olympic Committee.

Lake Macquarie Mayor Kay Fraser said Lake Mac had been a regular participant in the annual Games since 2008, and in 2014 became the first Australian city to host the event.

“The Games present a wonderful opportunity for our young athletes to compete international, while making new friends, travelling and learning about other cultures,” she said.

“Participants are there to compete, but they’re also acting as goodwill ambassadors for their city and country. The whole experience nurtures maturity and leadership, and opens young eyes to wider horizons.”

Swimming athletes chosen to represent Team Lake Mac at the 2023 Games are: Amelia Zaska-Bush, April Maloy, Evie Lucas, Sophie Hamilton, Jett Jenkinson, Cameron Waite, Hamish Ihle and Aleksander Gillon.

Keira Carlson, Addison Bass, Marli Brunckhorst, Tahlia Smith, Lacy Barnes, Xavier Orchard and Thomas Cashion will represent the city in track and field.

Head of Delegation Bianca Smith, from the Hunter Academy of Sport, said the Games were a great opportunity for emerging athletes.

“All of the competitors are aged between 12 and 15, so it is a rare opportunity for them to represent Australia and Lake Macquarie, as well as gain maturity as an athlete,” she said.

“This year we have a very talented team of athletes, so there’s a lot of excitement around the group, and they’re all busy with their training and preparation.”

Team Lake Mac will be accompanied by Lake Macquarie City Council representative Councillor Jack Antcliff.

Two coaches will also travel with the team to guide the athletes in their preparation for South Korea: Tara Angell (athletics) and Ben Jenkinson (swimming).