GRACE Kelly has cemented her status as one of Australia's brightest female sprinters, finishing fifth in the nation's richest foot race.

The 14-year-old was impressive in her Stawell Gift semi-final, saluting comfortably. It meant she was in with a shot of becoming the youngest female gift winner in the race's decorated history.

Kelly, who jumped from the second toughest marker, started well in the final but couldn't run down South Australian sprinter Hayley Orman, who was aided by a fast start.

Kelly, an Emmanuel College student who trains with DPS Warrnambool and the Ballarat Harriers, would've broken Talia Martin's five-year record with a win after the Ballarat speedster won as a 15-year-old in 2016.

BEFORE:

WARRNAMBOOL'S Grace Kelly could become the youngest female in history to take out the prestigious women's Stawell Gift.

The 14-year-old cruised through her semi-final triumph to book a spot in the final, which is scheduled for 1.50pm.

A delighted Kelly, who is in year nine at Emmanuel College, said she "couldn't believe it" after winning her semi.

"I honestly can't believe it. It was my goal to make the semi and to just have some fun," she said.

"To make a final with some pretty amazing athletes is just incredible."

The DPS Warrnambool athlete said the result proved hard work paid dividends.

She said she was unsure of what she'd do with the $40,000 prize if she was to win but would cherish the experience of running the race.

The women's gift final will be telecast on Prime7 from 1.50pm.

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