IPSWICH schoolgirl and BMX champion Holyee Jackson is calling on locals to help her raise funds for her racing career at a special community event next month.
The 15-year-old athlete, who has already achieved remarkable success in the sport, will host a fundraising event at the West End Football Club in East Ipswich on February 16 (10am-3pm).
The highlight of the event will be Jackson’s “Spin to Win $10,000 Community Money Board”, where attendees can buy a $200 square to enter a draw for a chance to win $10,000.
Once all 100 squares are sold, a spinner will determine the lucky winner, with half of the proceeds going towards the cash prize and the remaining funds supporting Jackson’s BMX journey.
Jackson, who is currently ranked eighth in the world in the Cruiser Challenge Class and third in Australia in the Junior Super Class, has set her sights on competing in the 2032 Brisbane Olympics.
In the short term, she is aiming to compete in the 2025 BMX Nationals in Australia and the Greatest Race on Earth in America.
“It’s about creating opportunities and giving back to the next generation of sporting talent,” Jackson said.
“This is a chance for everyone to support not just my journey, but the dreams of other young athletes in our community.”
Jackson’s fundraising efforts are supported by Olympian Natalie Cook’s Aussie Athlete Fund (AAF), which helps young athletes manage the financial challenges of competing at a national and international level.
Cook praised Jackson’s initiative, highlighting how crucial community support was for young athletes.
“Every competition comes with a price tag – flights, accommodation, and entry fees quickly add up, and the financial pressure can sometimes feel like a bigger challenge than the race itself,” Cook said.
“Without fundraisers like this, many young athletes wouldn’t be able to afford to compete.”
