Walpiri star Telaya Blacksmith is making waves in the athletics world again after a stellar performance at the Blacktown High Velocity and NSW Juniors competition last week.
Blacksmith achieved a Paris Paralympics B qualifier in the T20 400m.
Running at the Blacktown High Velocity meet the night before, she clocked 58.95, surpassing the B standard of 59.05.
Only 16 years old, she is proving to be a force to be reckoned with.
"It was good, but challenging as well," she said
"It was good to have someone in front of me so I could push myself and get a better time."
To boost her chances for selection, she must secure additional B qualifiers.
With Australia having limited quota spots, she faces competition from fellow Australians across various events and classifications.
Blacksmith, known primarily as a short sprinter and long jumper, confronts the challenge of adapting to the 400m—an event crucial for her selection prospects.
She ran a 61.41 in the 400m on Day 1 of the NSW Juniors, coming in at second place.
On Day 2 of the NSW Juniors, she set a new U20 record in the long jump, achieving a distance of 5.14m, surpassing the previous record of 5.09m.
Throughout her journey, the unwavering support of coach Jacinta Doyle and the squad has been instrumental.
"What an outstanding achievement this is. We are so proud of you Telaya," Outfit Coaching said in a statement.