Close to 100 Nowra High students took part in the event recently, which also involved students from Springwood State High School (St Lucia), Brisbane State High School, Trinity Grammar Queensland, Melba Copland High School (Melba, ACT), Bairnsdale Secondary College, Swifts Creek P-12 School, Melbourne Girls College and Norwood Morialta High School.

Of note was 16-year-old Emma Keane, who finished the 500-metre course in 1:45.40, which saw her finish fourth nationally in the under 19 girls category.

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Not to be outdone was Nash Connell (14), who finished as the school's quickest male, clocking a time of 1:35.70 over the same distance - which was the eighth fastest time in Australia's under 16s division.

Other standouts included Chase Smith, who finished fifth in the 500-metre under 14s division, in a time of 1:47.50 and Denzel Atkinson, who three spots back with 1:51.70.

Nowra High teacher and event organiser Julie Dart was thrilled by her students' involvement.

"Physical literacy is super important to all our students, especially during their COVID-19 period, with the mental health being such a hot topic at the moment," Dart said.

"To be able to hold the AIRC at Nowra High highlighted how important exercise is for our wellbeing and health for life.

"It was about building the skills, knowledge and behaviours that lead to active lives and empower students to combine fun and fitness.

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"Considering it all came about from me applying for a grant for our special education unit at Nowra High under the grow program before it grew into the whole school being involved using the ergs, where we became the only school in the state to contest the titles - to say I'm proud of everyone is an understatement.

"From principal Glen Kingsley, the staff and all 100 students who all took part, you all deserve a massive pat on the back."

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