Coles Little Athletics Australia and the Little Athletics Member Associations wish to advise that the 2021 Coles Australian Little Athletics Championships (ALAC) has been cancelled due to the ongoing concerns related to COVID-19 (Coronavirus) and the recent and unpredictable occurrences of lockdown measures.
Coles Little Athletics Australia, in consultation with Member Associations, has made this decision in the interests of the health and wellbeing of the Little Athletics community. The decision is in response to the ongoing threat of community transmission outbreaks resulting in lockdowns impacting travel arrangements.
Coles Little Athletics and the Member Associations are mindful of the lack of certainty for competing children and their families. It was determined that the risk posed by group travel, and any potential long-term isolation of minors while away from home, is too high.
The decision to cancel ALAC has not been taken lightly, and while alternative arrangements were considered, the organisational and logistical challenges have proven too difficult to overcome.
We know this decision will be incredibly disappointing to athletes and families during what has been a tough 12 months. However, the health and wellbeing of all athletes competing and those travelling is our number one priority.
Coles Little Athletics Australia President, Andrew Pryor said; “With a turbulent 2020, this has been a tough decision for Little Athletics Australia and the Little Athletics Member Associations. Nevertheless, it is our role to ensure that the health and wellbeing of the Little Athletics community always comes first.”
Coles Little Athletics Australia is continuing to work closely with Member Associations, our partners, and other commercial providers to minimise this decision’s impact on our community and recognise those athletes who would have been selected to compete in this year’s event.
