"We have 41 athletes going to the championships, which is more than usual," club president Craig Hardeman said. "We had 71 compete at the recent regions [events], and 41 have gone on from there."

This year, there has been a change in the selection rules, which benefited Williamstown as it was able to send more athletes to the championships.

"They've changed how you qualify for the state titles. Now if you finish first at the regions you qualify for the championships and everyone else is selected on times," Hardeman said. "Most of our athletes have been selected on their times."

He's confident the team can be among the top 10 at the competition.

"I think Nicola Hancock, who has been part of the state team in the throwing events ever since she started, will be one of our best. And Thomas Hardeman should go well in his three events."

The club's success comes despite an early end to its regular season.

"We have had the track ripped up so they can make it longer for us," Hardeman said. "We are lucky that the local clubs around have allowed us to use their grounds.

"Werribee had their open day last weekend and we were welcome to go to that."