Ready, Set… Teamwork!
Relays are one of the most exciting parts of Little Athletics — the cheers are louder, the smiles are bigger, and the teamwork is unbeatable! It’s where athletes come together, pass the baton, and share the thrill of racing side-by-side. Along the way, they build skills, make new friends, and create memories that last well beyond the finish line. From the very first handover to the final sprint, relays are all about team spirit, fun, and that unbeatable feeling of running for each other.
Who Can Join?
If you’re in U9 to U17, you’re in! Whether you’re lightning fast or just love running with friends, there’s a spot for you. Multi-class athletes are also welcome — you might race as part of an Essendon team (depending on numbers) or join forces with a broader crew, like Northern Metro Region (NMR). Either way, you’ll be part of the relay buzz!
Types of Relay Races
| Race Type | Description |
|---|---|
| 4x100m | Sprint relay with four athletes, each running 100 metres. Sprint relay with four athletes, each running 100m. Males and females compete separately. |
| 4x200m | Sprint relay with four athletes, each running 200 metres. Male and females compete separately. |
| 4x100m Mixed | Mixed-gender teams (2 males, 2 females) with each athlete running 100 metres. |
| 4x200m Mixed | Mixed-gender teams (2 males, 2 females) with each athlete running 200 metres. |
| Medley Relay | Four athletes run distances of 100m, 300m, 200m, and 400m respectively. Males and females compete separately. |
💡 New in 2025: Field relays for U13–U17. ELAC can submit one team per age group directly into the State relay competition. The team will consist of 3 athletes (one competing in Long Jump, another in Shot Put, another in Discus). Further details to follow!
🎥 Need a visual? Check out our fun explanatory video designed by one of our own athletes!
Team Formation
- Teams are created based on age, gender, ability, and availability.
- Ability is primarily assessed during the first meets of the season, but past performances (LAVic seasons, AV, SSV, ISV results etc) may also be considered.
- Final team selection and running order are determined at the discretion of the age group manager, relay team manager, and/or committee.
Training & Preparation
- 📅Sessions: 1–2 times per week from October, often combined with centre training on Mondays.
- 🏃♂️Focus: Baton passing, handover zones, pacing, and teamwork.
- ✅Attendance: Consistent attendance is encouraged for optimal team performance.
- 🏆Commitment: Training continues until Region Relays for all participants, then continues to prepare for State Relays for those teams that qualify.
Important Dates & Locations
NMR Region Relays 2025
- 📅 Saturday, November 22, 2025 (all day)
- 📍 Moonee Valley Athletics Track
- 🏠 Host: Essendon Little Athletics Club
State Relays 2025
- 📅 Saturday, December 13, 2025 (U9–U12 & Multi-Class)
- 📅 Sunday, December 14, 2025 (U13–U17)
- 📍 Lakeside Stadium, Albert Park
Medals and Progression to State Relays
The top three teams in each event (based on timed finals) will receive a medal at region relays.
The first team in every event will earn a direct entry qualification to State relays. The remaining qualifiers will be determined on times across the 7 regions and published by LAVic the week following the region competition.
Quick Note for Our Awesome Relay Parents
We love the energy, cheers, and encouragement you bring — but here are a few important things to keep in mind:
- Fair selection: – Teams are chosen based on age, gender, performance, attendance, and teamwork.
- A bit of wriggle room: – Managers might shuffle things around to keep teams balanced and competitive.
- It’s all about the team: – Relays are a group effort, so the spotlight is on “we”, not “me”.
Our team managers are amazing volunteers who give their time to make sure every child has a great relay experience. A dash of patience, a sprinkle of understanding, and a big spoonful of respect go a long way in helping us create a fun, positive atmosphere for all our athletes.
We appreciate respectful and constructive communication as we work together to support our young athletes.
How Parents Can Get Involved
We are seeking parent volunteers to assist with specific age groups. If you can help, please email essendon@lavic.com.au.