Perth Track Classic to challenge nation's best

• More than 250 athletes to compete in Go for 2&5 Perth Track Classic

• Event to feature some of the nation's top athletes

• Supported by the State Government, through Eventscorp, until 2015

Western Australia will host more than 250 Australian and international athletes as part of this month's Go for 2&5 Perth Track Classic.

Tourism Minister Kim Hames said spectators would be in for a treat with the event attracting some of the nation's best track and field stars.

"Household names such as world champion hurdler Sally Pearson are expected to compete in the event," Dr Hames said.

"The Perth Track Classic will provide some tough competition and, as part of the Qantas Australian Athletics Tour, it will offer an opportunity for our athletes to continue their preparations for the London 2012 Olympics."

The State Government, through Eventscorp, is proud to sponsor the Go for 2&5 Perth Track Classic for the next four years.

The Minister said Western Australia had a strong track record of hosting successful athletic events and the classic was the perfect addition to the 2012 events calendar.

"As well as the Perth Track Classic, WA has recently secured a number of other exciting athletic events such as the Australian Junior Athletic Championships in 2013 and 2016, and the 2016 World Masters Athletics Championships," he said.

"These events not only add vibrancy to our community, but they also generate significant economic benefits to the State.

"The World Masters Athletics Championships for example, is expected to attract 8,000 local, national and international visitors and deliver up to $31million to the State's economy."

      Fact File

• The Perth Track Classic is held on February 11, 2012 at the WA Athletics Stadium

• For more information on the event visit http://www.athletics.com.au

Minister's office - 6552 5300