National cross country gold – number four
Matthew McLachlan (11WJ) has won a remarkable fourth national cross country crown and his eighth Australian title overall.
He battled rainy, windy, and muddy conditions on the steep Launceston course to take the U17 cross country gold medal, adding to age titles he won in 2018, 2019, and 2023.
He produced a determined sprint finish to defeat Tasmanian Jack Woodberry, the national triathlon champion, in a thrilling conclusion.
He also won the national 3000m title for the second time, repeating his 2022 triumph and adding to the two 1500m titles he won in 2018 and 2019.
“He simply does not know how to lose,” said Trinity Director of Athletics Matthew Wade.
“For those that have seen him glide around the track, and often put over 100 metres on his opponents on dry and fast courses, you might have been forgiven for thinking that he might not be able to traverse the muddy course with as much ease.
“But he has the grit and resolve of a champion and he is tactically well ahead of his 16 years.”
He was one of five Trinity runners who qualified for the championships, joined by Patrick McMahon (8Du), Nathan Jones (8Mu), Samuel Oliver (9St), and Joshua Lubke (10Ta).
