His achievements in cross disciplinary sport are remarkable for one so young. At 13 years-old he is the reigning cross country (XC) ski champion of NSW in Division 3.

Three days before he won this title he placed third in the Australian National Championships in cross country running in under 14. Coach Peter Zala, a returnee to Jindabyne, recognises Liam’s potential as an athlete and says given the right advise, training and environment in which to grow his talents, Liam could be untouchable as a triathlete or cross country skier.

For it is in these sports that Liam wants to excel. His first foray into triathalons came last year when he joined Jindabyne Triathalon Club and he began to participate in competition. After four events he was selected to represent NSW in the All Schools Triathalon Championships.

Liam’s aim to eventually compete in the Olympics are supported by mentor and inspiration, Anthony Evans. Evans, who competed in XC ski-ing in the 1992, ’94 and ’98 Winter Olympics, watched Liam compete in the NSW titles and was amazed at his competitive spirit.

“He went like a rat up a drain pipe” Evans marvelled. “He knew what he wanted to get and that speaks for what sort of competitor he is. Mentally he is very professional for his age.”

A recipient of the Amelia McGuiness Foundation support grant, Liam chose to replace his skis, boots and poles for XC ski-ing but for now is happy to explore both sports in which he is involved. Not that they are mutually exclusive, as Peter Zala points out. German triathlete and Olympic gold medallist Jan Frodeno also trains in XC ski-ing.

“They are all about aerobic sports” adds Zala. Though it is Tara Burton who has the last say about her prodigy son. She is amazed at Liam’s motivation and dedication, and often discusses it with her partner Richard. “Liam’s attitude is humbling” she says.