National talent search hailed huge success

by Admin
December 11, 2024

The search targeted Australians aged 13-23 (for Olympic sports) and 13 plus (for Paralympic sports), and for many this was their first exposure to some sports.

“We’ve got some really exciting 13,14,15-year-olds here today who acquired their impairment in the last year and knew nothing about Paralympic sports until today…and hopefully will be on their way to the Paralympic Games,” said Paralympics Australia Senior Performance and Talent Adviser Tim Matthews.

Ivy Walker, who has peripheral vision loss, was among 180 Para participants to show serious potential. The NSW candidate is no stranger to sport, participating in blind cricket, rock climbing, athletics and skiing.

“This is one of the coolest things I’ve ever been to in a really long time. It would be amazing to be able to train at some of the facilities on offer and hopefully one day get to the Paralympics,” shared Walker.

This was the first time the high performance sector joined forces to deliver a talent search. The Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) partnered with all state institutes, Paralympics Australia and more than 40 major sports including cycling, rugby, Para-canoe and Para-snow.

“This campaign exceeded our expectations and could not have been made possible without collaboration from the entire sports system,” said AIS Performance Pathways Manager Elissa Morley.

“Each state created a memorable experience for participants and we’re really excited to announce the successful candidates in early 2025.”