Â鶹Éçmadou

On January 26, Sydney’s historic Rocks precinct came alive with the 36th Oz Day 10k – an event showcasing elite wheelchair racing. Hosted by Wheelchair Sports NSW/ACT, this iconic event has grown since its inception in 1990. Over the decades, it has become a cornerstone event celebrating the strength and talent of wheelchair athletes from around the globe demonstrating the vital importance of increasing visibility and opportunities for athletes living with disabilities.

In the Women’s Open division, Australian Paralympian Madison de Rozario once again reigned supreme. With her extraordinary 11th consecutive victory equalling the record of the great Kurt Fearnley AO, Madison solidified her legendary status in the Oz Day 10k history books. 

The Open Men’s race delivered a thrilling finish, with Sam Rizzo narrowly edging out his competitors to claim first place in a nail-bitingly close contest. In the Men’s Masters division, Paul Nunnari showcased his enduring skill and experience, taking home first place. For athletes in the T33/51/52 classifications, Jonno Tang and Sarah Clifton Bligh emerged victorious in the Men’s and Women’s categories, respectively. In the junior categories, Coco Espie triumphed in the Junior Girls division, while Lachie Reed claimed victory in the Junior Boys. These rising stars represent the future of wheelchair sports and embody the positive impact that events like the Oz Day 10k have on young athletes.

The success of the Oz Day 10k is made possible through the partnership between Â鶹Éçmadou and Wheelchair Sports NSW/ACT. This collaboration supports a range of programs designed to engage individuals with disabilities in sport, fostering safe and inclusive environments. In addition to the Oz Day 10k, these programs include the Junior Wheelies Holiday Camps, which provide young athletes with training and mentorship opportunities, and the HER Sports initiative, encouraging greater participation of women and girls in sport. The Rolling Rainbows program promotes LGBTQ+ inclusion, while the Wheelchair Basketball and Rugby Club Challenge seasons and the Inclusion Weekend Festival further cement the commitment to diversity and accessibility in sport.

As the Oz Day 10k celebrates its 36th year, it continues to grow stronger, inspiring athletes and spectators alike. With each passing year, this iconic event reinforces the importance of creating platforms for athletes with disabilities to showcase their talent, breaking down barriers and fostering a more inclusive sporting community.  A massive thank you to Wheelchair Sports NSW/ACT for this incredible day, we can’t wait for year 37!