Shock at sudden death of rising Aussie athletics star Zulqarnain Haider, 14, who held multiple records

The shock death of a star athlete has left an athletics club in mourning as dozens pay tribute to the 'phenomenal sprinter' with an 'infectious smile'.

Rising track star Zulqarnain Haider, 14, represented Keilor Little Athletics Club in Melbourne's northwest and his state on a national level. 

Photos of Zulqarnain wearing medals and proudly holding trophies have flooded social media as the tight-knit community comes to terms with his death. 

'Little Athletics Victoria is shocked and saddened to learn of the recent and sudden passing of Keilor Little Athlete, Zulqarnain Haider,' the state body wrote. 

'Zulq', to those who knew him, was an athlete with extraordinary ability. His athletics achievements in his very short life were possibly peerless. Our thoughts are with his family and friends. Zulqarnain Haider was 14 years old. Rest in peace.'

Zulqarnain's death has sent shockwaves through the Little Athletics community with several clubs paying tribute to the 'brilliant athlete'.

'In the wake of the tragic news about the untimely passing of Keilor Little Athletics athlete, Zulqarnain Haider, Melton City Little Athletics stands united in shock and sadness,' Melton City Little Athletics wrote. 

'Our thoughts and deepest condolences go out to Zulq's family, friends, and the entire Keilor Little Athletics community.'

'We are very sad to hear this news,' Doncaster Little Athletics wrote. 

'Condolences to Zulq, the Haider family and all who knew this incredible athlete. Rest In Peace, Zulq.'

Coburg Little Athletics wrote: 'Coburg would like to pass our sincere condolences to Zulq's family and friends.  He was a joy to watch and many of our athletes stopped what they were doing whenever he ran. A phenomenal talent taken too soon.'

'We would like to send our deepest condolences to the Haider Family and the Keilor Little Aths Family,' Cranbourne Little Athletics wrote. 

'An incredible and humble athlete with an infectious smile.'

Little Athletics NSW wrote: 'Awful news. LANSW send our deepest condolences to the Haider family and the LAVIC community'. 

Others in the community posted their own tributes to the track star. 

'He was a delight to watch, had a very bright future and he will be heavily missed in the athletics community. Had the privilege to watch him compete with my son and always in awe with how gifted and fast he was,' one person said. 

'It will not be the same watching that age group racing without Zulq beside them.'

'Condolences to his family. A wonderful talented athlete and an inspiration to watch. Taken too soon. Rest in peace,' another wrote. 

In 2020, Keilor Little Athletics gushed over Zulqarnain's achievements. 

'Zulqarnain made the top 10 boys for the centre which isn't a surprise considering he broke the Keilor records for U11 boys in the 100m, long jump and the 200m twice!' the club wrote in September. 

'What a remarkable season Zulqarnain and congratulations on being last seasons U11 boys champion.'