Garrett triumphs

Ky emerged victorious at the Australian Athletics Championships, earning the Australian Junior Championship title for men's hammer throw and setting his sights on representing Australia at the Oceania Games.

Fuelled by rigorous training, ambitious goals, and unwavering support from his coach and family, at just 18 years of age, Ky has already had many impressive victories in hammer throw.

Reflecting on his victory, Ky said, "it was a pretty exciting moment when I won".

"No other competition (I have been in) has been able to progress any further after representing in state so it was a really exciting big step," he said.

His achievement not only marked a personal milestone but also opened the door to broader opportunities on the international stage.

"This qualification for the Oceania Games was my goal from the start of this year and late last year," he said.

With his eyes set on representing Australia at the Games in Fiji, Ky is set to take his talents higher.

"This competition progresses onto the Oceania Games, so I now have the opportunity to represent Australia over in Fiji," he said.

The prospect of competing at such an event fuels Garrett's determination to go further in his hammer throw journey.

His road to success has been marked by relentless dedication and rigorous training.

"Training has been a long process," he said.

"It's usually consists of about four days a week of just hammer throw training and then two or three days in the gym."

As he prepares for the Oceania Games, Ky remains steadfast in his goals.

"We're just going to maximize my preparation for that event," he said.

With attention to detail and commitment, Ky is determined to make his mark on the international stage.

Looking ahead, he has set his sights on the World Junior Championships in two years' time.

"From here my long term goal, in two years time when I'm in the under 20s and can qualify for the World Champion Junior, which is a very big stepping stone to the Olympics and Commonwealth Games," he said.

With the guidance of his coach, Ernie Shankleton, Ky is confident in his ability to help navigate any challenges that lie ahead.

"My coach, Ernie Shankleton, has had a lot of experience at this international level," he said.

"He's coached a few athletes towards Commonwealth Games previously, so he's a great supporting person to go to when I need help."

"He makes sure I'm progressing correctly."

Ky also finds unwavering support from his family, saying, "my family pushes me through the tough times of training and being busy".