The Australian sporting community is in mourning following the sudden death of Paralympic gold medallist Paige Greco. The champion cyclist was just 28 years old.
A Sudden and Tragic Loss
Greco passed away at her home in Adelaide on Sunday after what authorities described as a sudden medical episode. The athlete, who had cerebral palsy, was a celebrated figure in Australian para-sport.
Her rise to fame was cemented at the 2020 Tokyo Paralympic Games in 2021, where she won Australia's first gold medal of the competition. In a stunning performance, she set a world record in the women's C1–3 3000m individual pursuit.
A Legacy of Achievement and Kindness
Paige Greco's sporting career was decorated with success. Beyond her historic gold, she also secured two bronze medals at the Tokyo Paralympics. Her trophy cabinet included multiple world championship titles and numerous world cup medals, marking her as one of Australia's most consistent and determined athletes.
In a heartfelt statement issued by AusCycling and Paralympics Australia, her mother, Natalie Greco, expressed the family's profound grief. "Paige meant everything to us," she said. "Her kindness, her determination and her warmth touched our family every single day. She brought so much joy and pride into our lives, and the pain of her passing is something we will carry forever."
The family also expressed their gratitude for the widespread support and took comfort in knowing how deeply she was loved by so many.
The Sporting World Remembers a Star
Cameron Murray, the Chief Executive Officer of Paralympics Australia, paid tribute to Greco, calling her death devastating. He described her as one of the nation's brightest para-sport stars.
"Paige was an extraordinary athlete but more importantly, a remarkable person," Murray stated. "As a Paralympian, Paige represented Australia with a level of commitment and composure that earned the admiration of everyone who had the privilege to watch her compete or to work alongside her."
He emphasised that while her athletic achievements were exceptional, it was her personal qualities—her kindness, quiet determination, and ability to uplift others—that would form her most enduring legacy.
The loss of Paige Greco leaves a significant void in Australian sports and in the hearts of all who knew her.
