Larissa Chambers.

A HOMETOWN send-off is being planned to recognise and encourage three of the region’s leading athletes contesting the Junior World Championships.

Ipswich and District Athletic Club trio Larissa Chambers, Cassie Purdon and Filoi Aokuso have qualified for the Australian team heading to Oregon, USA, on July 3.

However, before heading off, the Ipswich-based trio have been invited to compete at a special meeting at the Bill Paterson Oval on Friday night, June 20.

Former club president and experienced coach Bailey Pashley is helping organise events for Chambers, Purdon and Aokuso.

The competition from 6pm is open to the public to cheer on the teenage achievers.

The competition will double as important preparation for the athletes who have a number of national team commitments to fulfil.

Chambers was chosen for the 100m and 4x100m relay.

Purdon will represent Australia in high jump.

Aokuso is a seasoned discus thrower.

Pashley coaches Purdon and is delighted with her attitude.  “I take Cassie down to Brisbane each week just for training on the track down there.  She’s highly motivated and jumping well,” Pashley said.

Pashley is keen to see a good atmosphere at Bill Paterson Oval next month to wish the club trio well.

Pashley said other elite athletes would be invited to join the competition.  They include 400m Junior World Championships medal prospect Joshua Robinson and discus thrower Matt Denny.

“Hopefully we’ll get a bit of a crowd there and atmosphere around them while they are performing,” Pashley said.