Ryan's commitment a winning achievement

Picton Primary School student Ryan Simmons is a model of perseverance.

The Year 4 student has not let development delays stop him from achieving his athletics goal after months of preparation.

Ryan's commitment to training culminated in him competing in last month's State interschool cross-country championships in Perth, where he finished the 2.5km course.

He was also separately recognised in front of the whole school with a medal for running a full marathon - more than 42km - when his training distances were accumulated.

Eight students competed in Perth and deputy principal and athletics coach Bruce Cornish said they all had to commit to completing the training and have the right attitude.

"Ryan is a fantastic example of having your sights set on something and not giving in," he said.

"I feel satisfaction that a tough goal given to a student has been taken on board and reached.

"Running is a huge effort for Ryan but he wanted to join in and I said he could.

"I tell all the kids if they run one lap or 10, they have to do it non-stop."

That was what Ryan did - training four days a week before or during school and also running on his own.

He was able to run 2km non-stop at the South West carnival at Adam Road Primary School and increased his running to 2.5km a fortnight before the Perth event.

Ryan said he enjoyed getting fitter by doing laps of the oval and enjoyed his run in Perth.

Mother Pam Simmons said Ryan had not previously been a runner and she was proud of the commitment he showed training with his dad and brothers.

"For him to stick it out, I'm very proud of that," she said.