Heptathlete Jamieson Battistella was one of the most driven athletes entered in the 2016 Don Deeble Sports Star awards.
One of two runners-up, Battistella vowed to leave no stone unturned in her quest to represent Australia at the Olympic Games – no matter how long it took.
“The ultimate goal for me is definitely the Olympics,” Battistella told the audience.
“Maybe 2020, but more likely 2024 or maybe even 2028, but I definitely want to get there – that’s my end game.”
Battistella has to work harder than most because of the sheer volume of events she trains for.
The heptathlon is a two-day athletics event that takes in seven different disciplines.
“On the first day, we start with hurdles and do a high jump, shot put and a 200 metres,” Battistella said.
“The second day, we do a long jump, a javelin and an 800 metres.”
Battistella was talent identified by Maribyrnong Sports College.
It was while in action for the college that Battistella tasted overseas competition – at the Simplot Games in the US.
“It’s the biggest indoor track and field competition in America,” she said.
“It’s basically a high school meet with kids from all over America [and] this year also New Zealand, Mexico, Canadian and Australian competitors.”
Battistella came fifth at the under-17 Australian Heptathlon Championships, won gold at the Little Athletics Victoria state titles and came fifth in the Little Athletics Australia pentathlon.
She was excited to be recognised for her efforts.
“I’m so happy, so appreciative of everything,” she said.
