Representing Australia on the International Stage
October 30, 2025
Senior student, Mackenzi Shefe, represents Fairholme - and Australia - on an American tour with Sports Travel Australia.
During the Term 3 school holidays, Year 12 student, Mackenzi Schefe, was invited on an American tour with Sports Travel Australia to compete in multiple cross country races against athletes from American high schools and colleges.
The opportunity came unexpectedly, delivered in an envelope from her Holme Group teacher, Mrs Anderson, recognising Mackenzi’s previous
achievements and inviting her to represent Australia on the international stage.
Mackenzi travelled with the Sports Travel Australia team and competed in three major races, each offering a unique challenge and atmosphere. Her first race was the Music Mountain Invitational Cross Country, where she placed 2nd in a large and competitive field. The second race was the Vegas Elite Twilight Invitational, held at late in the evening, 10.20pm, under a canopy of fairy lights, where she placed 4th. The final race was the
Thunderbird Invitational Varsity, where she secured 3rd place.
Thanks to her strong track record, Mackenzi was placed in the elite race category, giving her the chance to test herself against some of the best young athletes from both America and Australia.
Reflecting on the experience, Mackenzi shared that one of the biggest lessons she learned was the importance of adaptability. Competing in unfamiliar environments, including desert terrain and in night conditions, pushed her out of her comfort zone and taught her to stay focused no matter what challenges arose.
The tour has only strengthened Mackenzi’s passion for cross country. With her sights set on future representative teams, she’s more motivated than ever to continue competing and improving.
Her journey is a powerful example of where dedication and opportunity can lead for those willing to take it on.
More News…
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