Kurt Fearnley

150611 - Kurt Fearnley - 3b - 2012 Team processing

Kurt Harry Fearnley (born 23 March 1981) is an Australian Paralympic wheelchair racer. He has won multiple gold medals at the Paralympic Games and has also competed in various marathons around the world.

Early life

Fearnley was born in Cowra, New South Wales, with spina bifida. Despite his disability, he was encouraged to participate in sports from a young age. He attended Blayney High School and later studied at the University of Western Sydney.

Career

Fearnley began his career in wheelchair racing in the late 1990s. He quickly rose to prominence, winning his first international medal at the 2000 Sydney Paralympics. He has since competed in multiple Paralympic Games, including the 2004 Athens Paralympics, 2008 Beijing Paralympics, 2012 London Paralympics, and the 2016 Rio Paralympics.

Paralympic achievements

Fearnley has won numerous medals at the Paralympic Games. His achievements include:

• Gold in the 5000m T54 at the 2004 Athens Paralympics
• Gold in the marathon T54 at the 2004 Athens Paralympics
• Gold in the marathon T54 at the 2008 Beijing Paralympics

Marathon achievements

In addition to his Paralympic success, Fearnley has also excelled in marathon racing. He has won the New York City Marathon and the Chicago Marathon multiple times. His determination and skill have made him one of the most respected athletes in the sport.

Personal life

Fearnley is an advocate for disability rights and has been involved in various charitable activities. He is also a motivational speaker, sharing his experiences and inspiring others to overcome their challenges.

Honors and awards

Fearnley has received several honors for his contributions to sport and the community, including being named an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) in 2019.

See also

• List of Paralympic athletes of Australia
• Wheelchair racing at the Summer Paralympics
• Marathon at the Summer Paralympics