FRESH from another successful Park2Park program, the regional athletics focus switches to the 39th Ipswich Winter Carnival.

The tradition-rich carnival on August 21 gives competitors an opportunity to measure their progress and share in the prizemoney on offer.

Competitors from around South East Queensland and NSW will join Ipswich and District Athletic Club members contesting track and field events and the sprint handicap races at Bill Paterson Oval.

Among the Ipswich club contingent is seasoned performer Liz Melrose, who is contesting the 120m Open Lightning Gift against the men.

Melrose will be one of the front markers, having raced at the Stawell meeting in Victoria over Easter.

Masters club athlete Patrick McCarthey will be a front marker too, having also lined up in Stawell.

Athletes are looking for a share of the $3000 prizemoney in the 31st running of the Open Lightning Gift. Other handicap races offer between $500 and $1000 prizemoney.

Nominations for the Gift raes close on August 15. Details at www.ipswichathletics.org.au

Other Ipswich club athletes competing include sisters Hayley and Olivia Windolf, Monique Williams, Ky Dalby, Adelaide Bailey, Joel Jakimowicz and Isla Mawer.

Hayley, 12, and Olivia, 14, are planning to contest the throwing events.

Monique, 15, Adelaide, 14, Joel, 14, and Isla, 12, are preparing for the 70m Under 18 Gift races.

Ky, 18, is focusing on the throwing events.

Popular race caller Graham Bannister is back for the return of the Sunday carnival.

The 2020 and 2021 winter carnivals were called off due to Covid.