It's the start of the little athletics season for many clubs in the area.

Many children have been inspired by watching the track and field events at the Games this week and will be eager to take the first steps of their own their athletics careers.

There is no better introduction for a young, hopeful athlete, than to become involved in their local little athletics club.

Balmy spring and summer evenings signal the start of hard-working volunteers dedicating their time setting up running tracks and numerous pieces of equipment, in the hope of producing

the next Cathy Freeman or our own hammer-throwing queen Bronwyn Eagles.

It's not a bad idea to encourage your child to become involved in an active, healthy lifestyle, which the little athletics clubs can offer.

You'll never know if your child could have the chance to be standing on the dais at a future Olympic medal ceremony if they don't start somewhere and, in my opinion, little athletics

provides a great grounding for these budding athletes.

The opportunities are endless in a variety of sports. Little athletics clubs are not just restricted to running events.

It can be so much fun for a youngster to try new sports such as discus, javelin and hurdling, just to name a few of the sports on offer.

Whether you live in Douglas Park, Ingleburn or Camden, there is a little athletics club in your area that would be more than willing to guide your child in an athletics career.

Although many children might not possess the natural talent or dedication to become an Olympian, little athletics still offers them a fun and friendly atmosphere.

Under the guidance of suitably qualified little athletics coaches, children can push themselves to the limit in their bid to win an Olympic gold medal one day, or simply set themselves their own sporting goals.

One parent told me the reason her children attend a little athletics club was because of the benefits of exercise and fitness out in the fresh air and in a ``good community environment''.

Another said it's a great way of meeting friends and that the children ``get a real kick out of it seeing their mums or dads cheering them on''.

Details for registration times will soon appear in the Advertiser.

* Last week's column attracted a big reaction from Bonnyrigg soccer fans on our website. Go to This is madness to read their comments.