The GIANTS’ AFL Women’s team has hit the track for the first time in the lead up to the 2019 season, with their pre-season preparations beginning with a 2km time trial. 

With 80 days until the GIANTS take on Brisbane in round one, Thursday evening’s session was the first step in their journey towards the 2019 NAB AFLW season.

Perennial front runners Phoebe Monahan and Nicola Barr impressed in the 2km time trial but it was second year player Elle Bennetts who took line honours just ahead of Monahan.

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Rebecca Beeson finished fourth, while rookie signing Taylah Davies rounded out the top five. 

It was a busy day for seven of the GIANTS’ new recruits, who spent their first full day at the club.

For Ebony O’Dea it was an especially unique day, with the Norwood recruit celebrating her birthday.

A GIANTS supporter before she was drafted with pick 68 in last month’s NAB AFLW Draft, O’Dea said it was a dream come true. 

“It was pretty exciting for a birthday I guess but there’s nothing more I could hope for than starting my time with the GIANTS on my birthday,” she said.

“A two kilometre run was a bit of a mean start but the girls have been very encouraging.

“It’s been an awesome day.” 

The GIANTS’ run was made all the more difficult as a storm lashed Sydney Olympic Park as the starters whistle sounded. 

“I actually enjoyed the rain a bit because it kept me nice and cool and I’m a bit more of a winter runner,” O’Dea said.

2km Time Trial Top Five

  1. Elle Bennetts
  2. Phoebe Monahan
  3. Nicola Barr
  4. Rebecca Beeson
  5. Taylah Davies