Capri Vincent is a dedicated athlete in Year 7 at Matthew Flinders Anglican College, and part of our Flinders Elite Athlete Program (FEAP).
She is also a national champion, having won first place at both her 200m and 100m races at the School Sport Australia Track & Field Championships 10-12 Years in Sydney from 28 November to 2 December 2024. In her 100m race she achieved a whopping 12.46 personal best, where the Opens national qualifier is 12.4.
Capri is focused on achieving lofty goals on the athletics track and is making impressive progress, also achieving first place and breaking a record for the U13 Girls 400m event at the Australian Athletics Championships.
Next, she will represent Flinders in the Australian All School Athletics Championships in the U14 girls 400m race in Brisbane from 6-8 December 2024.
In this FEAP profile, we asked Capri to share her goals and achievements, and reflect on her learnings as part of the FEAP.
Capri, please tell us about some of your sporting achievements.
I moved to the Sunshine Coast in 2023 and joined Flinders and the FEAP. I’m grateful for being embraced by the wonderful community here who have helped to motivate and inspire me. Earlier this year I had the incredible experience of competing at the Australian Athletics Championships in Adelaide, where I won the U13 Girls 400m event, breaking the championship record for my age group. Last season, I won the 100m, 200m and 400m events at the Little Athletics Queensland States, setting a State record in the 400m.
At the recent All School Junior State Championships in Brisbane, I competed in the 100m and 200m races. I achieved three gold medals, and a new PB in the 200m. I have qualified for the All Schools Nationals in Sydney later in the year. I’m excited to keep pushing my limits and striving to keep improving.
What are your sporting goals for 2024 and beyond?
My sporting goal for 2024 is to improve continuously in my key track sprint events. This requires constant dedication and perseverance. I’m committed to working hard and chasing my dreams, no matter the challenges that come my way. I aim to train diligently on the track and in the gym, focus on achieving personal bests and to continuously improve. My ultimate goal is of course to represent Australia and compete at the highest level in my chosen event at the Olympics. I believe that with hard work and determination, anything is possible. If I can achieve this goal and be the best version of myself, I can also have a positive impact on others.
What are your academic goals at Flinders?
My academic goals at Flinders are to achieve strong grades and to find the subjects that truly appeal to me. To do this, I will need to find the right balance between sport and academics. FEAP has been instrumental in helping me to manage my time effectively. I’m dedicated to working hard in my studies so that I can excel in the classroom, just as I do on the track. I believe that discipline, hard work and focus will help me grow.
What support have you enjoyed through FEAP?
FEAP has been an incredible support system for me. As FEAP Director, Ms Nourse has been outstanding—always checking in and offering guidance when I need it most. I’m so grateful for her unwavering support and the insights and ideas about balancing sport and study. I enjoy hearing from the athletes and sports professionals who visit to present workshops. Their stories are inspiring and extremely helpful. It is reassuring to know the path and sacrifices others went down to achieve their sporting and academic pursuits.
What new skills and strategies have you learned through the FEAP workshops?
I'm learning valuable skills and strategies that are really shaping my approach. First, I’m focusing on communication, specifically addressing issues upfront to prevent them from becoming bigger problems. This proactive mindset is helping me think ahead and stay ahead. Additionally, where I can, I’m maximising my time by scheduling my training before school and at the beginning of the week, when I have the most energy. This strategy not only boosts my productivity but also keeps me motivated and on track with my goals.
Do you have a favourite FEAP workshop so far?
The sports nutrition workshop has been a favourite, as it taught me what meals are best to eat before and after training sessions. It also emphasised the importance of a nourishing diet and hydration. Understanding how to fuel my body properly has made a big difference in my performance and recovery.
What else have you enjoyed about FEAP?
FEAP has been a huge help in my short journey, providing the support and resources I need to balance athletics and my studies. Importantly, the program reinforces my commitment to achieving my goals, staying focused and striving for excellence.
Tell us about your sporting role model.
Jessica Hull is an inspiring and successful athlete in the world of track and field. As a talented middle-distance runner, she most recently won a silver medal in the 1500m at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games. I had the incredible opportunity to meet Jessica Hull, and she shared an uplifting message with me, saying: “Always believe in yourself and push through the tough moments.” I’ve looked up to her since that day.
Jessica's positive attitude shines through, even in tough races. As she reflected on her journey at winning an Olympic medal to the media, she said, “Mum sent a photo of me at State Little at Athletics when I was, probably, 12 years old. She said, ‘Do it for this little girl tonight!'”
This statement speaks to Jessica’s resilience and long-term passion for the sport. Jessica’s journey is a reminder that hard work, positivity and dedication can lead to remarkable achievements. She inspires me to embrace challenges with a smile.
To learn more FEAP stories and be inspired by our student athletes, visit here.
