Local athletes Kai Arbery and Bree Ridding have been recognised as the joint winners of the Junior Sports Assistance Fund - Commercial Club Exceptional Junior Program, each receiving a $1,500 cash prize.
The Exceptional Junior Award is presented annually to an athlete or athletes who demonstrate extraordinary commitment and skill in their respective sports.
Kai, a member of the Mount Gambier Cycling Club, is considered one of the top cyclists in South Australia. He has achieved notable successes, including winning gold for South Australia in the Team Sprints for two consecutive years. Additionally, he earned a silver medal at the Oceania Track Championships in New Zealand for Team Sprint and currently holds the fastest opening lap time in Australia in the under 19 category. With a SASI Scholarship secured for both 2022/2023 and 2023/2024, Kai exemplifies elite athletic ability.
In addition to his sporting talents, he is committed to mentoring younger riders and has organised and run events focused on coaching and encouraging their development.
Joint winner Bree, a member of the Mount Gambier and District Baseball League, has recently represented South Australia at the state level in an all-girls baseball team. Her contributions have taken her around Australia, where she earned a "Spirit of the Game" medallion. Baseball SA remarked that Bree embodies the game's spirit both on and off the field, showcasing qualities such as care and compassion, along with an infectious enthusiasm. During recent tournaments, she has made significant contributions on the field, including a championship-clinching play on the mound.
In her 2023/2024 season, Bree made history as the first female to debut in A grade for the Mount Gambier League and has received numerous trophies and awards at various levels.
Bree is a cherished member of her club and the league, recognised for her willingness to support her teammates and fellow members through coaching, umpiring, canteen duties, equipment management and groundskeeping.
The Exceptional Junior Award program is made possible through an annual donation of $3,000 from the Mount Gambier Commercial Club, which has contributed a total of $49,000 to the fund over the past 23 years.
Presiding Member Cr Josh Lynagh expressed sincere gratitude to the Commercial Club for its ongoing support, highlighting the positive impact on local athletes' sporting potential.
"The Mount Gambier Commercial Club and the Junior Sports Assistance Fund are dedicated to assisting young athletes in excelling in their sports. We wish Kai and Bree continued success in their future endeavours," Cr Lynagh said.
