Fifty Years of Little Athletics in NSW Skills and techniques developed in athletics are regarded as fundamental for all sport. In the 50-year existence of Little Athletics NSW, over half a million athletes have enjoyed running, jumping and throwing with the Association. Their journeys in athletics have been as diverse as the sport itself. Hundreds have gone on to wear the green and gold, hundreds more have made lifelong friends, many have taken those foundation skills to other sports. But one thing is assured, they have cherished their introduction to sport as they build discipline and self-esteem, learn dedication and respect, and become aware of the benefits of fitness and health in life. THE BEGINNING Little Athletics in Australia grew from a small group of athletes in Geelong Victoria in 1963 under the guidance of Trevor Billingham. In 1967 Victorian Little Athletics Association was formed and a year later in October 1968 Dick Corish was the driving force for competition to commence in NSW at Randwick Botany Centre. Just prior to the commencement of the 1970/71 track and field season moves were made to establish more Centres, resulting in competition commenced at Blacktown, Sutherland, Eastern Suburbs, Deniliquin, Murrumbidgee (Narrandera/Leeton), Manly Warringah and Hornsby. During this period, the Little Athletics Association of NSW (LAANSW) was formed on 8th December 1970 at a meeting at the Randwick Botany Club where a steering committee was appointed under the Chairmanship of Cec Hensley.