Paige Greco, Australian Paralympic Gold Medalist, Passes Away at 28

Adelaide, Australia — Australian Paralympic gold medalist Paige Greco has died at the age of 28 after experiencing a sudden medical episode at her home on Sunday, according to South Australian authorities.

Greco, who was born with cerebral palsy, became a prominent figure in para-cycling. She won Australia’s first gold medal at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, setting a world record in the women’s C1–3 3,000m individual pursuit. Greco also earned bronze medals in the women’s C1–3 road race and time trial during the same Games.

“Her kindness, her determination and her warmth touched our family every single day,” Greco’s mother, Natalie, said in a statement released by AusCycling and Paralympics Australia. “While we are devastated by her loss, we are incredibly proud of the person she was and the way she represented Australia.”

Initially starting her athletic career in track and field, Greco switched to cycling in 2018. Throughout her career, she captured multiple World Championship titles and World Cup medals, showcasing her talents in various events.

This year, Greco returned to competition after health issues kept her from the Paris 2024 qualifying events. In August, she secured a bronze medal at the para-cycling World Championships in Ronse, Belgium, in the C3 road race.

Following the news of her passing, tributes poured in from Australian sports officials. AusCycling CEO Marne Fechner described Greco as “an extraordinary athlete” whose influence extended beyond her athletic achievements. “She touched the lives of everyone around her with her positive spirit and courageous outlook,” Fechner said.

Cameron Murray, CEO of Paralympics Australia, emphasized Greco’s legacy. “Her achievements were exceptional, but it was her kindness and ability to uplift those around her that will stay with us all,” Murray said.