Australia achieved a remarkable milestone at the 2024 Paris Paralympics, securing a total of 10 medals in various sports, marking their most successful day at the Games. The standout moment came in Para-rowing, where Nikki Ayers and Jed Altschwager triumphed in the PR3 mixed double sculls, earning Australia its first-ever Paralympic gold medal in the sport.
In an intense final, Ayers and Altschwager delivered a stellar performance to claim the gold. Their victory was even sweeter because it marked a historic achievement for Australia in Para-rowing. The event also saw some controversy, with Italy’s Giacomo Perini being disqualified for using an illegal communication device during the final, allowing Australian rower Erik Horrie to secure the bronze medal in the PR1 men’s single sculls.
Australia’s success continued in the pool, where swimmers Rowan Crothers and Tom Gallagher added to the medal tally in the men’s 100m freestyle S10. Crothers clinched silver, while Gallagher took home bronze. Meanwhile, Ahmed Kelly and Grant Patterson also delivered strong performances, both winning silver and bronze in the men’s 150m individual medley SM3.
In Para-cycling, Australia’s team of Gordon Allan, Korey Boddington, and Alistair Donohoe captured bronze in the mixed C1-5 750m team sprint. Their teamwork and determination secured Australia yet another podium finish.
At the Stade de France, Mali Lovell earned a bronze medal in the women’s 200m T36 event, and Dayna Crees added another bronze in the women’s javelin F34 competition, contributing to Australia’s growing medal count.
In other sports, Australia’s Jamieson Leeson and Dan Michel advanced to the finals in the women’s and men’s individual boccia BC3 events, respectively, showcasing their skill and potential for further success.
However, it wasn’t all victories for Australia. The Steelers, Australia’s wheelchair rugby team, faced a tough semifinal against Japan. After an intense match that went into overtime, the Steelers narrowly lost 52-51 and will now compete for the bronze medal. In men’s wheelchair basketball, Australia faced a strong U.S. team, falling 69-76 in a challenging preliminary round.
Despite these setbacks, Australia’s performances across the board showcased their athletes’ determination and resilience, making it a day to remember at the Paris Paralympics.
