The young Mittagong Lion rugby league star, who helped his under-12As team to a Group 6 title this year with his explosive running, said he was excited about the trip to Tasmania.

Russell finished second at the State Titles with a personal best time of 11:98.

The state record is 11:94.

He also finished sixth in the 200m.

Earlier in the year, Russell performed strongly at the Wingecarribee District Carnival where he qualified for the State 100m and 200m.

Mittagong primary’s principal Brett Neill said the entire school was behind Russell.

“The whole school is very excited to have one of its students compete at such an elite level,” he said.

“Students raised funds to assist Dylan in his quest for further success at this important meet.”

Travelling to the Titles was not cheap and Russell needed more than $1400 to make the trip.

The PSSA organises raffles to help students meet these costs and Neil said there was a great response to the raffle.

“We sold out of raffle books very quickly, there has been a tremendous response,” Neil said.

“Through the PSSA a laptop, Ipods and a 51cm TV are up for grabs.”

Mittagong RSL contributed $350 and local charity Mac attack also helped out financially.