The Stawell Gift 2011

Melissa Breen will aim to become the first woman to advance from the heats of the Stawell Gift over Easter. Breen will become only the fifth female athlete to compete in the famous handicap event. She will start from off either 11m or 12m.

Is it a coincidence that I recently borrowed a book from the Woden Library.

And the title is "Twelve seconds to Glory" by Murray McPherson.

The Official History of The Stawell Athletic Club.

I haven't got very far into the book yet, but it will be fascinating to discover some of the history of the event.

It is an event I have followed with interest over the years.