MARLO BIATHLETE A LOCAL SPORTING CHAMPION
September 11, 2012
Damon Morton has returned from national and international cross country skiing and biathlon championships to be named one of the latest Local Sporting Champions in Gippsland.
Damon has received a $500 grant to assist with the cost of competing at the elite level in his chosen field from Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester.
He has been competing internationally for four years and is the number one ranked cross country skier under the age of 16 in Australia.
Mr Chester said Damon’s success was a result of not only dedication and hard work but also a willingness to tackle the best at home and abroad.
“To have success in cross country skiing and biathlon you need to have a very disciplined approach to training and competition,” Mr Chester said.
“Both events require a significant amount of skill but also a lot of hard work and Damon’s achievements in both sports are a testament to his commitment.”
The Local Sporting Champions Program assists with the cost of elite level competition for regional sportspeople with $500 individual and $3000 team grants available to those aged 12 to 18 years who travel more than 250km to compete at State or National level.
Mr Chester said young Gippsland sportspeople displaying their talent at a national and international level continue to be rewarded through the Local Sporting Champions program.
“I encourage young sportspeople across Gippsland or their families and coaches to apply and take advantage of the program to help cover the costs of training and competing at the elite level,” Mr Chester said.
Anyone interested in applying for the funding can contact Mr Chester on 1300 131 785 or download forms online at www.ausport.gov.au/champions
