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Haines City brothers qualify for Junior Olympics

LAKE ALFRED, Fla. (WFLA) — There’s an empty field in Lake Alfred where they practice and it’s what their dreams are made of. No equipment, just heart for the young Winget brothers who officially both qualified for the Junior Olympics in Track and Field.

11-year-old Kipton and 10-year-old Keaton Winget are excited, to say the least, to be on this journey for Olympic gold together.

The Haines City pair are relatively new to the sport and both credit discipline as the secret to their success, despite the heat.

“I practice three times a week so I can have this opportunity,” said Kipton.

Their stats prove these young athletes are rising stars in their respective sports.

Kipton ranks 12th in the state for his event, the 1500-meter race. While Keaton ranks third in his event, the turbo javelin. He credits his love of football for his javelin talent.

“I’m used to throwing something, so it helps me throw it. I threw a 24.8, I think,” said Keaton.

Mom Lindsey said the upcoming Junior Olympics in Houston, Texas, comes with its challenges.

“Plane ticketing and Airbnb, and rental car. Then there’s entry fees and spectator fees and food for a week and all those fun things that go along with cheering your kids on,” said Lindsey.

The family is hoping for support from the community to help their Olympic dreams soar.

You can head to their team Facebook page, Polk County Pressure Track and Field, for ways to donate.