Pyper Warren (14) and Tahlia Tuckey (13) are best friends who have always done everything together.
Now they have both qualified to compete in the 2021 Australian nationals track and field championships in Sydney from April 12-18.
Pyper will compete in the 800m race and Tahlia will compete in the T2k steeple chase.
"I started running at school and realised I really enjoyed it in year 3," Pyper said. "I joined the athletics club in year 6."
"I found out I liked running at school too," Tahlia said. "I was one of the fastest girls at my school so I joined the club with Pyper."
The girls both grew up with sporty families who love to watch and play sport together. They say running has brought them a wide range of opportunities.
"I've made so many friends through athletics," Pyper said. "It also teaches you how to get past your nerves. You get nervous before every race at the start but you get used to it."
One of Tahlia's favourite parts of running is the calmness it brings over her mind.
"It's good to get out and do some exercise. If you're worried or upset and you go for a run it helps to take it all away," she said.
When asked how they feel when they have to compete against each other, the girls laugh.
"We pretend we don't know each other," Pyper said and Tahlia agreed. "And we are always proud of each other."
At the national championships, Pyper and Tahlia will compete in their respective races, and if they place in the top three in their heat they will make the finals.
The 800m race that Pyper will be taking part in is a favourite of hers. "It's my favourite race," she said. "It's a good distance."
Tahlia's race, the T2k steeplechase involves running and jumping over hurdles.
"There are four hurdles and then the last hurdle you jump over is water. In one of my races I almost forgot to jump over the water," Tahlia laughed.
The girls have big dreams and both plan to pursue running when they finish school.
"I want to start running professionally," Pyper said.
"Me too," Tahlia added. "I would really like to go to an American sports school."
When asked what advice they would give to someone wanting to start athletics, the girls shared similar sentiments.
"Participate and have fun. Don't let other people get you down," Pyper said.
"Just remember that everyone was in your shoes when they started," Tahlia said.
The girls will head to Sydney with their mums for the national championships and they are both excited for the challenge.
And they are looking forward to "doing a little shopping" while there.