A pair of sisters from Bedfordale are about to take on the fastest long-distance runners in the country.
Scarlett (12) and Savannah Nunn (10) have both been selected in WA’s cross country dream team – comprised of the fastest six runners from each age group.
From August 20, they’ll compete in the Australian Cross Country Championships in Yarra Glen, Victoria.
This will be Scarlett’s third national event, after finishing up first in her age group in state cross country last year.
She’s also just returned from an impressive run in both the 1500m and 800m of the Australian Junior Athletics Championships, where she walked away fastest in the state and sixth fastest in the country in the 1500m.
Scarlett is a born natural – not only is she a pocket rocket, but she has the mental discipline of a champion.
“She wakes up quite early to run – and she never misses a day. She’s probably the most determined kid you’ll meet,” mum, Jessica said.
But the intensity of national competition took her by surprise last year; despite placing 19th in the country, Scarlett left disappointed in her performance.
With experience under her belt, and her confidence boosted, Scarlett is priming herself to go harder and faster this year.
“I really want to come top three,” she said.
“I’m ready for it this year, and I refuse to give up.”
Savannah has watched her sister’s rise, and been inspired to shoot for the stars herself.
After persevering through three trials, and pushing herself so hard she collapsed over the line at the last qualifier, Savannah well-and-truly earned her spot on the state team.
“I was going to do anything to get to nationals,” she said.
“And I was in a good spot, so I knew I would get a place from about the middle of the race – I just had to keep going.”
Her family were understandably over the moon at her success.
“We were so excited – I think I cried,” Jessica said.
Savannah is incredibly talented in her own right, but she appreciates that her sister has led the way to success on the track.
“It’s really fun, and I’m good at it. But it’s easier knowing my sister has done this before,” she said.
She has her heart set on recording the fastest time from WA for her age.
“And I’d like to make top 15. I’d be really happy if I got that,” she said.
Both girls dream of running at an Olympics in future, and are watching Aussie track star Jessica Hull’s Paris performance with great interest.
But for Scarlett, running comes a close second to her true love: AFL.
She will also be heading to Victoria shortly to represent WA in footy, proving that her sporting talent is multi-disciplinary.
“It’s my dream to play for the Eagles,” she said.
While it may seem like the Nunn sisters were destined for greatness, they’ve also put in the effort. They’re testament to the fact that anything is possible if you want something enough to work hard for it.
