By Nick Creely
Dandenong South Primary School student Kaydam Andersen is an athlete well and truly on the rise.
She harbours aspirations to one day represent her country, but like all up and coming sporting stars, she is determined to work her way to the top.
Kaydam is set to represent Victoria from 18 September to 23 September this year as part of the School Sport Victoria team, 10 to 12 Track and Field State Team, which will compete in the School Sport Australia Championship in Darwin, Northern Territory.
It has been a great performance by Kaydam following a selection process to make the final team, where she will be running in the 800 metres and 1500 metre events.
Kaydam said she was very much looking forward to representing her state in the coming months, after venturing into the sport a few years ago.
“I’m very proud to represent Victoria at the national championships,” she said.
“When I was seven years old I started, (and) I was inspired when I was six watching the Olympics and said to my mum I want to be like Usain Bolt.”
Athletics is an extremely tough caper to master, and Kaydam said it comes down to dedication, patience and plenty of training.
“I am a very proud competitor, with lots of energy, endurance and passion,” she said.
“I train three times a week and still focus on all my regional and State competitions.”
Kaydam – who is hoping a strong championships performance can propel her to one day represent her country in either Commonwealth games and Olympics – has plenty of people to thank.
“I want to thank my mum, dad, brother and sisters and family, and my coaches, Nick and John from DSA, Sandringham LAC, Bayside XC, and my PE teacher Brent Van Rooyen,” she said.
“Also my sponsors Safelift solutions, Palm Place Nursery, and L.A recycling. And everyone who has donated through my go fund me page.”
To donate to Kaydam ahead of the championships, head to www.gofundme.com/1ncmbn7m40
