Newcastle Athlete Lauren Parker Set for Dual Paralympic Games History

Lauren Parker, a Newcastle athlete, is set to become the eighth Australian to participate in both the Summer and Winter Paralympics. She will compete in cross-country skiing and biathlon events in Italy.

Lauren Parker is poised to make history as Australia's eighth dual Summer and Winter Paralympian.

A Decorated Summer Career

Parker previously secured two gold medals and one silver at the Paris 2024 Summer Paralympics in triathlon, road race, and ITT H3 (individual time trial, hand-cycling) events. She also earned a silver medal at the Tokyo 2020 Games.

Rapid Transition to Snow

Parker stated she first engaged with snow sports approximately a year ago and began skiing in June of the previous year. She highlighted the rapid progression and the significant effort required to acquire new skills quickly.

She was introduced to skiing by a friend associated with Snow Australia, who suggested her potential in cross-country skiing and the possibility of qualifying for the Paralympics.

Mastering New Disciplines

In biathlon, a sport combining cross-country skiing with target shooting, Parker demonstrated an incredible learning curve.

Remarkably, Parker learned to use a rifle just two days before racing in Canada in December.

She will compete in all three biathlon events and all three cross-country skiing events, totaling six events, showcasing her versatility.

Expert Endorsement

Three-time Paralympic medallist Christie Dawes noted that the winter events' actions are similar to wheelchair racing, a component of Parker's triathlon discipline. Dawes lauded Parker's determination and dedication in adapting to new sports so rapidly.