From Hills News 28th June, 2011

Kristy Pond was the toast of the Northern Territory last month after winning seven gold medals at the Arafura Games in Darwin.

The 14-year-old Hills District Athletics Club representative dominated her elder opponents to win the women's 100m, 200m, 400m and 800m wheelchair races. She also won gold in the women's javelin and shot put wheelchair events.

Kristy said she enjoyed the games and was pleased with her efforts in overcoming a difficult "spongy track".

"Darwin's track is brand new and a little spongy for racing as our wheels dig in," Kristy said.

"These are the type of challenges I love in this sport."

Kristy was able to set a new Australian Record of 4.08m in the wheelchair shot put event.

"I had to miss the opening ceremony as I was competing in the shot put on day one," Kristy said.

Because of the schedule clash, Kristy missed the chance to march in the opening ceremony and see performances from Jessica Mauboy and Icehouse.

"It turned out to be worth missing though as I threw a Personal Best, won a gold medal and set a new national record," she said. "It was so rewarding to win and to stand on the podium singing out national anthem."

Kristy's mother and long-time coach Jenny Pond said she was proud of her daughter's courageous efforts.

"It's been a long process in the making," Jenny said.

"We are all very proud of her and all the track and gym she does every week."