Firstly, it is part of the prestigious International Amateur Athletics Federation World Challenge. The IAAF weigh all meets and have made this an accredited event because of its importance and the performances expected. Secondly, it is the national championship. The Australian Athletics Tour has been building up to this. Athletes want that national title! Thirdly, it is the key nomination for selection in the London Olympic team. Being an Olympic year, this event has extra importance as athletes strive for qualifications for the London Games. The dream of every athlete is an Olympic spot, and with only a few up for grabs, every athlete will be peaking for these trials. Fourthly, it will be held at the new Lakeside Stadium (Albert Park). The new stadium replaces the "spiritual home" of Australian Athletics, Olympic Park, which last year was closed for redevelopment as an AFL training facility.
The final word is that this will be a meet worth checking out. With the athletes in peak form and so much at stake, you'll be bound to see some amazing action. Friday sees qualification, with finals held on the Saturday. More details at: www.athletics.com.au/home/competition/aat2012/aat_meetinfo/melbournetc