Paralympic gold medallist Paige Greco dies at 28 after ‘sudden medical episode’ | Other | Sport

Paralympic gold medallist Paige Greco has died at the age of 28 following a ‘sudden medical episode’ in her native Australia. The para-cyclist, who clinched her country’s first gold medal in Tokyo five years ago, died at her home in Adelaide on Sunday. She broke the world record for the women’s C1–3 3,000m individual pursuit, a track event where cyclists race head-to-head on opposite sides of the track.

In a statement, AusCycling said that Greco died after experiencing a ‘sudden medical episode’, citing local authorities. She was one of the country’s most accomplished para-athletes, having also claimed multiple World Championship titles and World Cup medals. She also competed in road events, claiming a bronze medal at this year’s World Championship.

Speaking in the wake of her death, her mother Natalie said: “Paige meant everything to us. Her kindness, her determination and her warmth touched our family every single day.

“She brought so much joy and pride into our lives and the pain of her passing is something we will carry forever. While we are devastated by her loss, we are incredibly proud of the person she was and the way she represented Australia.

“As a family, we are deeply grateful for the support shown by so many people connected to Paige, including her team-mates and friends. Paige cherished the connections she made through her sport, and we take comfort in knowing how widely she was loved.

“We are grieving deeply and ask for privacy, time and space to navigate this overwhelming loss.”

Marne Fechner, chief executive officer of AusCycling, added: “We are heartbroken by the tragic news of Paige’s death. Paige was an extraordinary athlete who achieved outstanding accomplishments at the highest levels of our sport.

“Much more than that, she touched the lives of everyone around her with her positive spirit and courageous outlook.

“Our thoughts and condolences are with Paige’s family, friends, teammates, coaches and support staff, past and present, during this incredibly sad and difficult time.”

Cameron Murray, chief executive officer of Paralympics Australia, highlighted Greco’s personal qualities that helped so many of her fellow athletes behind the scenes.

“We extend our deepest condolences to Paige’s loved ones and to those who were closest to her,” said Murray. “The sadness being felt across Paralympics Australia today is a reflection of the enormous regard in which she was held.

“Paige was an extraordinary athlete, but more importantly, a remarkable person. As a Paralympian, Paige represented Australia with a level of commitment and composure that earned the admiration of everyone who had the privilege to watch her compete or to work alongside her.

“Her achievements on the international stage were exceptional, but it was her kindness, her quiet determination and the way she uplifted people around her that will stay with us all.

“She had a rare ability to make people feel included and supported, and her influence will no doubt leave a lasting impression on so many.”

AusCycling and Paralympics Australia also said they will continue to work closely with Greco’s family, who have requested privacy as they grieve their loss.