THE sporting world is now turning its attention to the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics and two Fraser Coast athletes are representing the region on the biggest stage.
IMAGES: Paralympics Australia.
Swimmer Keira Stephens and goalball player Raissa Martin will do Australia proud when their respective events get underway.
Keira is competing in her first Paralympics.
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She started para-swimming in 2015 and received her first Aussie cap in 2018.
Her career highlights to date include winning a silver medal in the women’s 100m breaststroke SB9 at the 2018 Pan Pacific Para-swimming Championships.
Keira’s profile on the Paralympic Team website said she competes in a number of different events including freestyle, breaststroke and medley races, individually and as part of a relay team.
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The swimmer announced her inclusion in the Paralympic team with a post that read: “Officially off to Tokyo. A dream come true, so grateful for everyone’s constant love and support. So honoured to be able to represent Australia at the Games. Tokyo here we come!”
Meanwhile, Tokyo 2020 is Raissa’s second Paralympics, having been selected for the Australian team that competed in Rio de Janeiro in 2016.
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According to the Australian Paralympic Team website, Raissa said she always wanted to be a Paralympian and adopted the mantra of “how and when.”
She started playing goalball in 2012 and quickly moved up the ranks, earning a spot in the national squad by 2013 and playing her first match for Australia in 2015.
Raissa also enjoys rock climbing, hiking, camping and playing board games with her friends.
She posted a photo of herself on her Instagram account this week with the caption, ‘I’m off to Tokyo.’
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Raissa said she was thrilled to be in the team.
“It has been a really long road to get here and I just know we are ready for the exciting challenge ahead.
“This could not have been achieved without the support of some amazing people and organisations.
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“Finally, thank you to all my friends and family, who show me love, patience and support,” she said in a previous Instagram post announcing her selection to the women’s goalball team.
You can view Raissa’s profile on the Paralympic team website, here.
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