Penrith Valley Athletics celebrates 50 years with a night to remember

Penrith Valley Athletics Association (PVAC) has celebrated its 50th anniversary in style, bringing together life members, past presidents, former athletes and current families for a special night at the track.

A DJ set the tone, food trucks lined the grounds, and every child who took part received a commemorative medal. The program included a 50-metre sprint for all age groups, a birthday cake, a raffle, jellybean guessing and colouring-in competitions, plus 50th anniversary T-shirts.

Penrith Mayor Clr Todd Carney, Federal Member for Lindsay Melissa McIntosh MP and NSW Athletics’ Development Officer Alvin Umadhay joined life members and athletes, past and present, for a march past. 

One of the most special moments of the night was the presence of Col Davies, one of PVAC’s original founders and a life member. His attendance gave the club a chance to take a trip down memory lane, celebrate its rich history and recognise the people who have helped make PVAC what it is today.

PVAC President Danielle Lynch said it was a thrill to see so many people from the club’s history come together.

“It was fantastic to see so many of our life members there, previous club presidents, previous athletes, and then obviously our families as well.” she said.

The celebration comes as the club reaches new heights. PVAC has just over 400 registered athletes this year, the largest number Ms Lynch is aware of, and the club’s volunteer base continues to grow.

It’s a remarkable turnaround considering around six years ago, PVAC’s committee was down to just two people and the club’s future was uncertain. Two long-serving life-members refused to give up, continuing to reach out and recruit new volunteers. Today, the committee has 25 members.

Ms Lynch said the growth is being felt across the sport.

“I know of other local clubs that are at their biggest numbers as well. It’s really good to see that athletics is gaining that momentum again,” she said.

Whether you’re a child ready to try running, jumping and throwing, a parent keen to volunteer, or an adult looking to get back into the sport, there’s a place for you. Find your local club here.