Getting involved in parasport can transform your life. It’s not just about physical abilities, it’s about discovering your strengths, building self-confidence, and becoming part of a community that supports you every step of the way. For me, parasport was never solely about competition. It became a way to redefine my potential, break through challenges, and find a place where I felt I truly belonged. If you’re curious about how to get started, I’d like to share my journey and what parasport can offer.
My path wasn’t without obstacles. I was born with Spina Bifida, and over the years, I’ve undergone more than 30 surgeries. But despite the challenges, I was determined to live an active life. From a young age, I pushed beyond the limits that others thought I had. I wasn’t going to let my physical condition stop me from exploring the opportunities that sports could provide.
Over the years, I’ve tried a range of sports. I’ve played wheelchair basketball, done handcycling, wheelchair turbo touch, and even triathlons. For a few years, I was also a competitive swimmer. But in 2019, I shifted my focus to wheelchair racing. It wasn’t about trying to be the best from the start, I just wanted to see where it could take me. As I grew more committed, my passion for the sport deepened, and my determination to improve increased. Like many young athletes, having the right support and environment made a huge difference in my progress.
Physically disabled and vision impaired athletes during on Day 2 of the Halberg Games 2023 at Kings College, Auckland, New Zealand on Friday 15 April 2023. Mandatory credit: Brett Phibbs / www.photosport.nz
Connecting with Local Programmes and Organisations
If you’re thinking about getting involved in parasport, my biggest recommendation is to connect with local programmes. For me, Disability Sport Auckland has been incredibly helpful. These local clubs offer not just training but also a supportive space where you can learn new skills and get advice from people who understand what you’re going through. Now that I’m a coach at Disability Sport Auckland, I see firsthand how these programmes help young people unlock their potential. It’s more than just training—it’s about being part of a community that believes in your abilities.
A major part of my journey has also been working with organisations like Paralympics New Zealand. Their ‘Seeing is Believing’ programme gave me the chance to visit schools and share my story, helping young people realise the possibilities within parasport. 
Programmes like these aim to inspire the next generation, showing that if you believe in yourself and take that first step, the possibilities are endless.
The Halberg Foundation has also played a significant role in helping young athletes with disabilities get involved in sports. They provide essential resources and guidance, opening doors for people who may not have otherwise had the opportunity to participate. Their commitment to inclusivity in sport has been instrumental in helping athletes like me grow and
succeed. Organisations like Halberg make a big difference when it comes to access and support.
Taking The First Step
I understand how overwhelming it can feel to start something new. You might be wondering, “Where do I even begin?” or “Which sport is right for me?” I’ve been there too. But if I’ve learned anything, it’s that you need to just dive in. Try different sports, reach out to organisations, and find something that excites you. Whether it’s wheelchair racing, basketball, swimming, or something else, there’s a sport out there that fits you. The most important thing is taking that first step.
Parasport has been a huge part of my personal development.
It’s not just about breaking records or winning races—it’s about growth. Through parasport, I’ve gained confidence, built resilience, and discovered my purpose.
My journey hasn’t always been easy, but every challenge has pushed me to break through my limits and redefine what I thought was possible. Today, I’m proud to be a world-ranked wheelchair racer and an advocate for inclusivity in sport, and I believe that parasport has the power to change lives.
For any young person thinking about getting involved in parasport, my advice is simple: explore your options, connect with programmes that support you or even contact me, and most importantly, believe in yourself. The path might have its ups and downs, but it’s full of opportunities to grow, learn, and become part of a community that’s always there for you. Parasport is about much more than competition—it’s about finding your true potential and embracing the possibilities ahead.
My journey is proof that with the right support and determination, you can break through barriers and achieve things you never imagined possible.
