Paige Greco, Australian Paralympic Champion, Dies at 28

Australian Paralympic champion Paige Greco has died at the age of 28. Greco, a celebrated para-cyclist, won her country’s first gold medal at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games. She passed away suddenly on Sunday at her home in Adelaide due to a medical episode, according to AusCycling, the national governing body for cycling in Australia.

Greco’s family expressed deep sadness over her loss while celebrating her life and achievements. Her mother, Natalie Greco, said, “Paige meant everything to us. Her kindness, determination, and warmth touched our family every single day. We are devastated by her loss, but incredibly proud of the person she was and the way she represented Australia.”

Paige Greco was born with cerebral palsy. She began her sporting journey as a track-and-field athlete before switching to cycling in 2018. Her talent and dedication quickly earned her recognition on the international stage. Throughout her career, she won multiple World Championship titles and World Cup medals in para-cycling events.

At the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, Greco achieved historic success for Australia. She broke the world record in the women’s C1–3 3,000m individual pursuit, a track cycling event where two cyclists race head-to-head on opposite sides of the track. In addition to her gold medal, she earned bronze medals in the C1-3 road race and the time trial events, showcasing her versatility and endurance.

Greco was unable to participate in selection rounds for the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games due to health issues. However, she made a strong return to elite competition in 2025. In August, she won another bronze medal at the Para-cycling World Championships held in Belgium, in the C3 road race event.

Following her death, tributes poured in from Australia’s sporting community. Marne Fechner, CEO of AusCycling, called Greco “an extraordinary athlete who achieved outstanding accomplishments at the highest levels of the sport.” He added, “Much more than that, she touched the lives of everyone around her with her positive spirit and courageous outlook.”

Paralympics Australia CEO Cameron Murray also praised Greco’s character, saying, “Paige’s 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.”

Paige Greco’s story inspired countless Australians and athletes worldwide. Her dedication, resilience, and success as a para-cyclist will continue to be remembered. Beyond medals and records, her warmth, humility, and encouragement made her a beloved figure in sports and in her community.

The passing of Paige Greco is a tragic loss for Australia and the world of para-sports. She will be remembered not only for her remarkable achievements on the track and road but also for the kindness and courage she showed throughout her life. Her legacy will continue to inspire future generations of athletes.