Australian Paralympic gold medalist Paige Greco has passed away at the age of 28. The Australian Paralympic Committee and Australian cycling federation released a statement confirming her sudden death at her Adelaide residence due to a medical emergency on Sunday.
In a heartfelt tribute, Paige’s mother, Natalie Greco, described her daughter as a source of daily joy and pride for the family, highlighting her kindness, determination, and warmth. Despite the profound grief over her untimely passing, the family expressed immense pride in Paige’s representation of Australia.
Paige, who was born with cerebral palsy, made headlines by clinching the first gold medal at the Tokyo Paralympics in 2021, setting a new world record in the women’s C1-3 3,000-meter individual pursuit. Additionally, she secured bronze medals in the road race and time trial events.
Transitioning from Para athletics to cycling, Paige quickly made her mark in the Para-cycling realm, setting world records, winning gold medals, and earning silver at the 2019 track world championship. Her accolades also included multiple world championship titles and World Cup medals.
Paralympics Australia CEO Cameron Murray lamented the loss of Paige as a devastating blow to the Australian Paralympic Movement, praising her exceptional athletic prowess and character. Murray emphasized Paige’s lasting impact through her kindness, determination, and ability to uplift those around her, leaving an indelible mark on all who knew her.