Teen Star Daniel Williams Set to Shine at Powercor Stawell Gift

Date: 5th April 2025

(Stawell, VIC) – The rise of Australia’s next middle-distance sensation is gathering pace, and attention. Nambucca Heads’ 17-year-old standout, Daniel Williams, is set to make waves in the 1000m Invitational Handicap at this year’s Powercor Stawell Gift Carnival, held over the Easter long weekend.

Williams, one of the most exciting young talents in Australian athletics, will line up against a seasoned field in what promises to be a race for the ages. Despite the challenge, the teenager’s recent performances suggest he’s more than ready.

His breakthrough came earlier this month at the Adelaide Invitational, where he clocked a blistering 1:46.70 in the 800m final, surging home just 0.30 seconds behind Olympian Peter Bol, who will also contest the 1000m Invitational at Stawell. It was a statement race that confirmed his arrival on the national scene.

Now, Williams turns his focus to the 1000m Handicap, a unique and tactical event that will pit him against an experienced field of elite runners. But the rising star is embracing the challenge.

“I’ve grown up hearing about Stawell and watching legends run here. To now be part of it feels surreal,” Williams said.

“I know the field is strong, but I’m here to challenge myself, learn, and give it everything.”

The Powercor Stawell Gift Carnival has long served as a launching pad for emerging talent such as Dean Capobianco, Melissa Breen, and Steve Brimacombe, who have gone on to represent Australia and compete on the world stage.

Williams will look to follow in those footsteps this year and SGEM Chair Murray Emerson is confident the youngster is ready.

“Daniel has shown remarkable poise and ability for someone his age. The 1000m handicap at Stawell is a different beast, but he’s proven he can rise to the occasion.”

Williams began his athletics journey at just eight years old and has been under the guidance of coach Andrew Rowlings for the last five years. His hard work recently earned him a spot on the Australian team for the 2024 World U20 Championships in Peru, a milestone that has only fuelled his ambition.

“The lead-up and experience of representing Australia as a junior was an amazing adventure which taught me so much,” Williams said. “I am really excited to take some of this wisdom into the open category at Stawell and see what I can do against the nation’s best”

The 143rd Powercor Stawell Gift Carnival will run from April 19–21, with the Invitational 1000m Handicap scheduled for 1:35 pm on Easter Monday. Tickets to see Daniel race are available via Ticketek, and fans are encouraged to book early.

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