As we get ready for the Paris 2024 Olympics and Paralympics, it's a great opportunity to celebrate the amazing success of Indigenous Australian athletes.
Marissa Williamson Pohlman will make history as the first Indigenous female to compete for Australia in Boxing at an Olympic Games. Her hard work, skill and never-give-up attitude serve as a source of motivation for all Australians, highlighting the strength and ability of Indigenous athletes.
Pohlman will join a group of 60 Indigenous athletes who have previously represented Australia at the Olympic Games. These athletes include Cathy Freeman and her iconic gold medal win in the 2000 Sydney Olympics to Patrick Johnson's record-breaking sprinting achievements.
At the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics Amanda Reid became the first Australian woman to win a Paralympic Gold medal in cycling. Winning the Women's 500 m Time Trial C1-3. But despite breaking the world record in Tokyo, she wants to go even faster in her qualification for Paris. But regardless of the result Reid is hoping her performance on the track can help inspire the next generation of Indigenous athletes.
Their success shows the strength and talent of Indigenous athletes challenging stereotypes and breaking down barriers. They inspire younger generations, promote a sense of pride and unity in the community and make an incredible impact on the world of sport.
Did you know that:
- Cathy Freeman was the first Indigenous individual gold medallist, competing at the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games
- Boxer Joe Sewell was Australia's first Indigenous Olympian, competing at the 1908 London Olympics
- Kevin Coombs was first the Indigenous Australian Paralympian, competing at the inaugural Paralympic Games in Rome in 1960. He competed in Wheelchair Basketball and Athletics across 5 Paralympic Games.
