The 14-year-old recently returned from the Queensland Junior Track and Field Championships in Brisbane with incredible results she would not have dreamed of only six months earlier.

The Good Shepherd Catholic College student broke her leg playing basketball in August last year, falling awkwardly as she tried to complete a rebound.

The incident could not have come at a worse time, as Carmen was scheduled to compete in a regional school carnival in Longreach just a week later.

Refusing to be inhibited by her serious injury, Carmen had a cast fitted and bravely battled pain to participate in her pet event, javelin.

"I just really wanted to go down and compete," she said.

"I had a lot of painkillers but I think it was more painful at the end of the day once I'd finished competing.

"With javelin I have to go back on my right leg, which is the one I broke, and it hurt quite a bit...I was definitely nervous."

Carmen returned from the carnival with exceptional results, but it is her performances at state level that are most impressive.

The extent of her injury has meant recovery is a lengthy process, and as a result has severely restricted her training and preparation.

Additionally, Carmen has been unable to incorporate a run up or swing into her routine - a significant disadvantage when it comes to competition.

Carmen overcame the physical and mental hurdles that came with the broken leg to achieve two fourth placings at the Brisbane-based competition last month, while also recording a personal best of 27.14metres.

In light of her confidence boosting performances, Carmen has raised the bar as she looks ahead to the future.

"(With training) I'll be able to perfect my run up and hopefully improve enough as I aim for nationals next year," she said.

"I'm pretty confident, that one day, I could potentially get to the Olympics."

The statistics wouldn't discount her from Olympic action, as Carmen, who only took up javelin last year, already boasts the Mount Isa Athletic Club's records for 14 year old girls javelin, hammer throw and weight throw in addition to the 15 years javelin title.

Club president Ken Dickson complemented Carmen's aspirations, insisting the sky is the limit.

"At the moment she is a strong but casual thrower," he said.

"If we can get a bit of determination and fire in her, who knows how good she may be."

Her commitment cannot be questioned, but Carmen also excels in netball and basketball as well as undergoing secondary education.

Finding adequate time to practice each sport while continuing to focus on her study may be difficult to maintain, if she endeavours to take the next step.

For the moment though, Carmen is just enjoying herself competing in the activities she loves.

"I love being athletic," she said.

"Most importantly it helps me meet people and I just enjoy it...I have a lot of fun while doing it."