Tuqiri Mason on pace to build promising athletic career after breaking 20 year-old record

Joseph Guenzler Published August 18, 2023 at 11.00am (AWST)

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Tuqiri Mason recently clocked a 100m time of 10.92s whilst barefoot, on grass at Hastings Secondary College. (Image: Supplied)

Proud Gangalu athlete, Tuqiri Mason, is making a name for himself in the world of athletics at only 15 years of age.

Mason recently etched his name in the record books of New South Wales' Hastings Secondary College after shattering a two-decade standing record in the 100m dash in both the open and 16 Year divisions.

Despite his nerves and running barefoot with no starting blocks or specific training, Mason clocked a staggering 10.92s, passing Adam Miller's record set 20 years ago.

Miller, who became a notable Australian sprinter with a 100m PB of 10:17s, showcased his skills on international stages including the 2004 Olympics, 2006 Commonwealth Games and 2007 IAAF World Championships.

Though Mason's favourite event is long jump, he is grateful for what he has been able to achieve so far with such little help.

"It feels incredible to have broken the record, I'm proud and grateful for this achievement," Mason told National Indigenous Times.

"My favourite event is long jump just because I get really nervous for my running events."

Mr Mason's achievements don't stop there.

During the Lower North Coast Districts competition hosted in Coffs Harbour, he displayed his diverse athletic prowess by clinching first place in the 100m, 200m, and long jump events.

*Tuqiri Mason jumped 6.02m at the Lower North Coast Districts. (Image: Supplied)*

This feat has propelled him into the next phase of competition, a testament to his natural talent and skill which he hopes to take to the highest level.

"I'm only 15 going on 16 and would love to represent my culture and country and would like to see myself in the Olympics," he said.

"I have had lots of community support which encourages me to better myself."

Despite his high ceiling for potential, financial constraints loom as a hurdle in Tuqiri's path.

With a limited timeframe of just one month, his family is seeking support to ensure his participation in the upcoming NSWCHSSA (NSW Combined High Schools Sports Association) - Secondary Athletics - Championships.

His Mum, Candice, is proud of her son's achievements and a firm believer in his potential in the world of Athletics.

*Tuqiri's family are seeking support to help get him over to Sydney for the upcoming NSWCHSSA Championships. (Image: Supplied)*

"His personality is family grounded (meaning being around family) and he's a pretty chilled relaxed young boy," she told National Indigenous Times.

"If he put his mind on his athletics he can go along way.

"I remember when he was in year 3, he had to race against the year 6 and 7 boys and he beat them! That's how I knew he had potential."

Mason will be competing from 5-8 September, coinciding with his 16th birthday on September 7.

As Tuqiri embarks on this significant chapter of his athletic journey, a GoFundMe has been established to assist in the cost of registration fees, uniforms, accommodation, fuel and other expenses.