SCHOOL CROSS COUNTRY STARS VIE FOR STATE HONOURS

More than 600 young cross country stars from across the state will descend on Townsville tomorrow to compete in the Queensland School Sport 19 years and under Cross Country Championships.

Education and Training Minister Rod Welford said Anderson Park, located in Townsville’s Botanic Gardens, would host the two-day championships on Thursday 19 and Friday 20 July.

“The first day of the championships will involve individual races ranging in distance from three to eight kilometres and on the second day there will be team relays,” Mr Welford said.

"I'd like to congratulate all competitors for their achievement in representing their regions, and wish them every success at the championships.

"This event provides a great opportunity for these young athletes to compete at a high level while meeting and sharing experiences with their peers from across the state.”

Twelve sporting regions will be represented—Capricornia, Darling Downs, Metropolitan West, Metropolitan North, Metropolitan East, North Western, Northern, Wide Bay, Peninsula, South Coast, South Western and Sunshine Coast.

Mr Welford thanked the dedicated teachers and school staff who had worked hard to make the championships a success.

A state team consisting of up to 70 students will be selected to compete at the School Sport Australia National Championships to be held in Perth in August.