They know the Victorian Athletic League circuit well and, with a focus now on masters running, VAL meets have fit in nicely with speed training – especially one week out from the Oceania Masters Athletics Championships in Bendigo.

Narelle and Rob Lehmann, both decorated sash winners, will bring their 13-year-old daughter Jess to Maryborough for the first time on New Year’s Day.

A promising young sprinter, Jess has tested a few VAL meets this season to help build her own race.

Jess is yet to get the better of her parents, despite lining up against both in finals this season – Rob in a women/veterans race at Northcote and Narelle in the Ararat Women’s 100m Gift on Monday.

As a new contender, Jess’ open marks are tight – restricted events are more generous – and she is still enjoying the challenge.

Ararat kicked off a big week for the Lehmann stable, where Narelle claimed the sash in the women/veterans’ 300m handicap and Jordan Keast won the under-20 120m.

Runs at Maryborough today and Daylesford on Saturday will help Narelle and Rob launch into the masters in Bendigo.

“There’s always good competition in Maryborough.

“It’s a good way to start the year,” Narelle said.

“At our age, you just have to present in the best shape you can.

“When you’re older, it all comes back to how you feel on the day.”