Sherryn Micallef, 11, of Buxton, and Rebecca Pollard, 10, of Thirlmere, will head to New Zealand next month to compete in the 100 metre and 200 metre run, long jump and discus.

``They're very excited. Rebecca's only 10 and I'm nervous about sending her over because I worry she'll get homesick but she just says `No Mum, I'll be right,''' said Rebecca's mother, Lisa Pollard.

The girls will compete in Auckland with the NSW Little Athletics but will also have the opportunity to visit a Maori marae.

``It's a proper cultural thing and an educational experience as well as a sporting experience for them which is great,'' Mrs Pollard said.

Rebecca has been doing athletics for three or four years and Sherryn for six.

The girls recently represented Thirlmere Public School in the public school state championship at Sydney Olympic Park where Sherryn was picked for the national team.

The girls need to raise about $2500 each to get to New Zealand.

Those interested in donating money to get the girls to the Challenge should contact the Wollondilly Advertiser on 46405151.