Thrilling News: Griffith Inclusive Futures Shines at the 2024 Gold Coast Marathon!

A massive congratulations to the incredible team from Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability and Griffith University! Our staff, students, and ambassadors showcased their exceptional spirit and athleticism at the 2024 Gold Coast Marathon this weekend.

Celebrating success! IFRD team members Rebekah Barker and Maretta Mann proudly display their 10km Finishers' Medals.
Race day smiles from Bek, Adam Sheppard, and Maretta.

STANDOUT PERFORMANCES

Geoff Trappett OAM Australian Paralympic legend and Inclusive Futures partner Geoff Trappett dominated the Men’s Open 10km event, clinching first place in his category with a phenomenal time of 30:28. Watching Geoff race is always a thrill!

Kudos to Adam Sheppard (10km, M40-44), Natasha Price (CPL Wheelchair 10km), and the winners: Jake Lappin (CPL Wheelchair Marathon), Emily Tapp (CPL Wheelchair 10km), and Joshua Brass (Wheelchair 4km).

A big shoutout to Garth Plank, CEO of Mentor4me, for his incredible behind-the-scenes efforts in launching the first-ever 4km Wheelchair Race this year! Garth's inspiration and coaching were pivotal for Emily Foster, who discovered her passion for wheelchair racing at a City of Gold Coast ‘come ‘n’ try’ event. Thank you, Garth, for all you do for the wheelchair racing community! Read more here: https://goldcoastmarathon.com.au/2024/07/07/race-report-wheelchair-4km-race-joins-the-gold-coast-marathon-presented-by-asics-suite-of-events/

Dr. Maretta Mann Our dynamic Inclusive Futures Strategic Development Manager, Maretta, blazed through the Southern Cross University 10km Run (F45-49) with a personal best of 51 minutes, securing 19th place in her category. Maretta also joined her family in the Gold Coast Airport 5km Run. Way to go, Maretta!

Rebekah Barker Inclusive Futures Project Support Officer - a newcomer to running, Rebekah tackled her first competitive 10km (F35-39) event, finishing strong with a personal best of 52:32 minutes, and 41st in her category. Fantastic effort, Bek!

A montage of images: (L-R) Geoff Trappett OAM, paralympic champion, powers past in his race chair. Dr Maretta Mann together with Geoff Trappett post race.

Geoff Trappett OAM, Australian paralympic champion, powers past in his race chair.
Dr Maretta Mann together with Geoff post-race.

THE POWER OF INCLUSIVE SPORTS

“Play: Active and Engaged Citizens” is one of the core themes of Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability. This theme focuses on inclusive sport, recreation and access to safe and healthy environments throughout the lifespan. It will respond to the growing disparity in health outcomes for people with disability and aims to increase participation and performance in competitive sport in the lead up to the Brisbane 2032 Paralympic Games.

Inclusive sports play a crucial role in promoting equality, breaking down barriers, and fostering a sense of community. By providing opportunities for people of all abilities to compete and excel, we not only challenge stereotypes but also inspire others to embrace diversity and inclusivity. Events like the GC Marathon – which has expanded to include three wheelchair events – highlight the importance of making sport accessible to everyone, and showcase the talents and determination of athletes of all abilities.

Celebrate with Us!

Hats off to all athletes, including those with disability and chronic conditions, for their outstanding achievements. If you participated, let us know so we can celebrate your success together!

Amazing job, everyone!

VISIT OUR WEBSITE: https://www.griffith.edu.au/research/inclusive-futures-reimagining-disability

Categories: GCM24, Gold Coast Marathon, Inclusive Sport, Wheelchair Race, Geoff Trappett, Maretta Mann, Rebekah Barker, Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability, Griffith University, Play