Australian Paralympic gold medalist Paige Greco has passed away at the age of 28. The Australian Paralympic Committee and Australian cycling federation issued a statement confirming her sudden death at her home in Adelaide due to a medical episode on Sunday.

In a heartfelt tribute, Paige’s mother, Natalie Greco, expressed the profound impact her daughter had on their family through her kindness, determination, and warmth. Despite the devastating loss, the family remains proud of Paige’s representation of Australia and the person she was.

Born with cerebral palsy, Greco made history 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. She further secured bronze medals in the road race and time trial events, adding to her impressive list of achievements.

Known for her exceptional talent, Greco also achieved success in world championships and World Cup events, setting multiple records and earning medals. Transitioning from Para athletics to cycling, she quickly made a name for herself in the Para-cycling community, showcasing her prowess and determination.

The loss of Paige Greco has deeply saddened the Australian Paralympic Movement, with Paralympics Australia CEO Cameron Murray describing her as one of the brightest young stars. Murray praised Greco not only for her outstanding athletic accomplishments but also for her character, kindness, and ability to inspire and uplift those around her.

Greco’s legacy as an extraordinary athlete and a compassionate individual is set to have a lasting impact on the sporting community and all those whose lives she touched.