Superstar paratriathlete Lauren Parker has been named as Australia’s Paralympian of the Year.
Parker went from agony to ecstasy at Paris 2024 as she claimed PTWC gold to exorcise the ghosts of Tokyo 2021.
The brilliant Australian had looked to have glory locked up in the Japanese capital three years ago before being passed by American Kendall Gretsch within metres of the finishing line.
It was one of the sport’s greatest ever finishes, but also one of its most agonising moments for the runner-up – which she has now put behind her with her Paris heroics.
Double cause for celebration
Not only did Lauren win the women’s PTWC triathlon, she also struck gold in the women’s road race H1-4 cycling event and collected a silver in the women’s road time trial H1-3.
All of which saw the 35-year-old honoured at a gala dinner on Australia’s Gold Coast where she was not only named Paralympian of the Year but also Female Athlete of the Year.
Parker’s medal haul contributed to a final tally of 63 medals for the Australian Paralympic Team, including 18 golds, as they finished ninth in the medal table.
‘Tenacity and resilience’
And the tributes keep coming in for Parker as Australia Post have developed a special commemorative stamp which recognises her achievements.
Paralympics Australia chief executive Cameron Murray said of her incredible accomplishments: “Lauren’s tenacity and resilience resonate with so many Australians, which is why we are grateful to Australia Post for producing these stamps which are fitting tribute to an incredible Paralympic athlete and role model.”
That was echoed by Lauren’s Bahrain Victorious team, who posted on Instagram: “Congratulations to the incredible @laurenparker2127 on being named Paralympian of the Year! 🏆👏
“Lauren’s determination, resilience, and relentless drive inspire us all. From dominating the racecourse to breaking barriers, she continues to show the world what it truly means to be victorious. 🌟”
Perfect response
After that Tokyo heartbreak, Parker put together an incredible series of results, winning pretty much every race including three World Championship titles.
And that dominance continued in Paris.
She blasted clear off the front, giving arch rival Gretsch virtually no chance of bridging the huge gap.
And sure enough this time it was too big an ask for the American as Parker claimed that much-cherished gold.
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