Finding Her Thing at FAST

Some athletes arrive at FAST knowing exactly what they want.

For Clare Rice, that vision is already clear.

After competing at ALAC, Clare joined FAST Running with the goal of becoming a stronger Long Jumper — and eventually stepping into one of athletics’ most demanding events:

Steeplechase.

At just 12 years old, Clare still has time before she can compete in the event at Australian All Schools level as an U15 athlete. But the foundations for that journey are already beginning.

And after only three sessions, she already feels part of the squad.

A Strong Base to Build From

Clare arrives at FAST with a broad athletic background and strong early results across multiple events.

At ALAC she competed in:

• 1500m
• 1500m Race Walk
• Long Jump
• Triple Jump

Her performances included:

• 5:56.03 in the Girls U13 1500m
• 8:05.02 in the Girls U13 1500m Race Walk
• 4.18m in Long Jump
• 9.13m in Triple Jump

More importantly, those results reflect versatility.

Endurance.
Coordination.
Elasticity.
Movement awareness.

All qualities that create strong long-term athletic potential.

Long Jump as a Development Tool

At FAST Running, long jump is more than just an event.

It develops:

• posture at speed
• take-off mechanics
• rhythm and coordination
• stiffness through the ankle and lower limb

For Clare, it provides an opportunity to build athletic qualities that will eventually support both jumping and steeplechase.

This is long-term development — not rushing toward outcomes.

Becoming Part of the Squad

One of the most important parts of joining a new environment is feeling connected to it.

Despite being one of the newest members of FAST Females, Clare has already settled into the group naturally.

Training alongside athletes of different ages and events, she has quickly embraced the culture, energy, and standards of the squad.

Three sessions in…

And already part of the team.

Looking Ahead

At 12 years old, there is no need to rush.

The focus right now is:

• movement quality
• athletic development
• confidence
• learning the process

The performances will come later.

What matters most is building the right foundation first.

At FAST Running, every athlete’s pathway looks different.

Some arrive focused on sprinting.
Some on jumps.
Some already thinking years ahead toward events like steeplechase.

What matters is creating an environment where those ambitions can grow.

And Clare’s journey is only just beginning.