The nine-year-old runner qualified for the 2016 National Cross Country Titles, after finishing second in the State Athletes with Disabilities Cross Country Championships under-10 race, in July.

She competed nationally at the Stromlo Forest Cross Country track in Canberra between August 18 and 21.

“Alivia braved the freezing cold temperature and rain on race day and, although Alivia won the race by 40 seconds, due to her AWD [Athletes With a Disability] category, she took home the silver,” her father Ryan Hunt said.

Following this race, Alivia competed in the 1000m time trial, winning her first under-10 AWD national one kilometre title.

“[This] helped NSW to win the overall state titles ahead of all other states, and New Zealand,” Mr Hunt said.

“I am very proud of Alivia, she ran very well and put in a huge effort on both race days.

“Alivia had a great time in Canberra, she went to Parliament house and the war memorial to learn a little bit about our history.”

Alivia’s parents would like to thank her school, Muswellbrook Public School, for their huge support; Jen Bellamy for her help with fundraising; and everyone who bought raffle tickets.

“Alivia is very excited for next year’s events and can’t wait to start training again,” Mr Hunt said.