CSNSW Alumni Set to Shine at Paris 2024 Paralympic Games
As the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games approach, we are proud to highlight the achievements of three exceptional alumni from Catholic Schools New South Wales (CSNSW) who will represent Australia in para-swimming. Their impressive journeys reflect the values of dedication, perseverance, and excellence.
The Paris 2024 Paralympic Games are scheduled to begin on August 28, 2024, and will run until September 8, 2024. The games will be held in Paris, France, and will feature a wide range of events across various sports for athletes with disabilities.
Sarah Walsh - St John Bosco College, Engadine
Sarah Walsh, an alumna of St John Bosco Catholic Primary School and St John Bosco College in Engadine, is set to make her mark at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. Specializing in para-athletics, Sarah will compete in the long jump T64, continuing a remarkable journey that began with her first running blade at age 9.
Sarah's dedication to athletics was evident from the start, and her talent quickly gained recognition. She made her Paralympic debut at the Rio 2016 Games, where she set an Oceanian record with a jump of 4.82 meters in the women's long jump T44, securing a sixth-place finish. This performance demonstrated her potential on the global stage and set the tone for her future successes.
In 2017, Sarah advanced to fourth place at the World Para-Athletics Championships, further proving her ability and commitment. Her achievements continued to grow, culminating in a standout performance at the World Championships in Dubai in November 2019. There, she achieved a significant leap of 5.20 meters, earning a third-place finish and showcasing her impressive skill.
Sarah’s progression from her school days at St John Bosco College to competing at the Paralympics reflects her hard work and perseverance. As she prepares for the Paris 2024 Games, the St John Bosco College community and supporters across Australia are proud of her achievements and inspired by her dedication. The entire nation will be cheering her on as she competes on the world stage in Paris.
Holly Warn - Sacred Heart Primary, Mosman
Holly Warn, a 15-year-old alumna of Sacred Heart Catholic Primary School in Mosman, has secured her place on the Australian team for the Paris 2024 Paralympics. Diagnosed with cerebral palsy at four months old, Holly’s path to the Paralympics has been marked by remarkable achievements. At the Paralympic Trials, she earned her spot by finishing third in the 400m freestyle S7. Her performance at the 2024 Australian Age Championships was outstanding, where she won gold in the 100m and 50m backstroke, and the 400m and 100m freestyle, alongside a silver in the 50m freestyle.
Now training on the Gold Coast, Holly’s commitment to her sport is evident in her continued progress and ambitious goals. With aspirations for the Los Angeles 2028 and Brisbane 2032 Games, Holly’s journey is a testament to her resilience and dedication. Her former school community at Sacred Heart Catholic Primary School and supporters across the nation are looking forward to her performances in Paris.
Timothy Hodge - St Bernadette's Lalor Park & Patrician Brothers, Blacktown
Timothy Hodge, an alumnus of St Bernadette’s Lalor Park and Patrician Brothers College Blacktown, is also preparing for the Paris 2024 Paralympics. Timothy’s career has been distinguished by early international success, starting at the 2015 IPC Swimming World Championships in Glasgow. His Paralympic debut came at Rio 2016, and he has since added to his accolades with silver medals in the 100m breaststroke SB8 and 100m backstroke S9 at the 2018 Commonwealth Games. At the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics, Timothy won silver in the 200m individual medley SM9 and bronze in the men’s 4x100m medley relay.
As he heads into Paris 2024, Timothy continues to demonstrate exceptional talent and dedication. His journey is a reflection of his hard work and perseverance, and he remains an inspiring figure for young athletes. The communities of St Bernadette’s and Patrician Brothers College, along with his supporters, will be eagerly cheering him on.
Paige Leonhardt - St Joseph's Regional College Port Macquarie
Paige Leonhardt, a former student of St Joseph's Regional College in Port Macquarie, has shown remarkable resilience on her way to the Paris 2024 Paralympics. Following a severe car accident at age five, Paige has overcome significant physical challenges, including hemiplegia and epilepsy. Her competitive swimming career began in school and Polding events, leading to a successful trajectory that includes a bronze medal in the multi-class 50m breaststroke at the Australian Championships and gold in both the 50m and 100m breaststroke at the Australian Age Championships.
Paige’s debut at the Rio 2016 Paralympics was notable, and she further distinguished herself at Tokyo 2020 with a silver medal in the 100m butterfly S14. With ongoing support from coach Michael Mullins, Paige continues to excel. Her achievements are a source of pride for St Joseph's Regional College and her supporters across Australia as she prepares for Paris.
As these talented athletes approach the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, their achievements and unwavering commitment serve as a source of inspiration. The CSNSW community and supporters across the country look forward to their performances and offer their full support. We extend our best wishes to Holly, Timothy, and Paige as they take on the world stage in Paris.