More Than $16,000 In Prize Money Up For Grabs As The Mid North Carnival Returns
Dual Australian Olympian Morgan Mitchell is heading to Crystal Brook this month, hitting the track as part of the 2026 Pacific Blue Crystal Brook Classic.
The carnival returns on Saturday, November 21, with Morgan set to compete in the 120m and 300m events, joining runners from across South Australia for a huge day of racing.
And with $16,700 in prize money up for grabs, there’s plenty to race for!
Bringing Olympic Experience To The Track
Morgan represented Australia at the Rio and Tokyo Olympic Games, competing in the 400m and 800m.
And if you’re more into reality TV than athletics, you might recognise her from the 2025 season of Australian Survivor.
She’s also come on board as an ambassador for this year’s carnival, after organisers met her at the Bay Sheffield and started talking about ways to get more young people involved in athletics.
Along with racing, Morgan will meet the kids, lead warm-ups and spend time chatting with young runners.
Event co-coordinator Shane Arbon said having an Olympian involved was a great way to get more kids interested in the sport.
“We’re pretty excited to have Morgan coming along. It’s not every day you get an Olympian racing at Crystal Brook, and hopefully the kids get a bit of a kick out of meeting her too.”
Plenty To Race For
The Crystal Brook Classic brings runners from across South Australia to the Mid North, with handicap races ranging from 70 metres through to 1600 metres.
The men’s and women’s 120m races are among the biggest on the program, with $3,500 up for grabs in each.
There’s also plenty for younger runners, with 120m and 300m races for boys and girls in the under-8, under-10, under-12 and under-14 age groups.
Organisers are pleased with this year’s nominations, particularly among the younger competitors, while the carnival also gives experienced runners a chance to compete ahead of the famous Bay Sheffield later in the year.
From Footy Fundraiser To Major Carnival
What started as a fundraising idea for the Crystal Brook Football Club has grown into the only athletics carnival of its kind in northern South Australia.
First held in 2022, the event is now heading into its sixth carnival, with funds raised going straight back into supporting the local footy club.
And there’s plenty happening away from the track too, with face painting, kids’ entertainment and activities, plus live music.
Well-known race caller Ollie Wurm will keep spectators across the action, while food trucks, the club canteen and bar will keep everyone fed and watered throughout the day.
For those travelling from further afield, there’s even camping available at the showgrounds beside the oval, with powered sites for $15 and unpowered sites for $10.
With free entry for spectators, it’s a good chance to enjoy some top-quality racing and a day out in Crystal Brook!
2026 Pacific Blue Crystal Brook Classic
When: Saturday, November 21
Where: Crystal Brook Oval
Racing: 12.30pm to 7.30pm, subject to final programming
Entry: FREE for spectators
More Info: South Australian Athletic League
