Tag: Paris 2024

Underdog Taymon Kenton-Smith Captures Hearts, Finishes in Fourth in Para Archery

Although he finished fourth in the recurve open competition, Springfield Lakes para archer Taymon Kenton-Smith emerged as an unexpected star in Paris 2024. Kenton-Smith captured attention with his vibrant persona, colourful hairstyle, and impressive performances against top-ranked opponents, quickly becoming a crowd favourite.

Read: From Promise to Paralympics: Taymon Kenton-Smith Aims for Glory Beyond Paris

Taymon Kenton-Smith, giant-killer

Ranked 21st in the world, Kenton-Smith showcased his remarkable skill by defeating several higher-ranked competitors. He eliminated world No. 1 Samuel Molina of Mexico and overcame world No. 4 and No. 7 ranked archers, advancing to the semi-finals before finishing fourth. 

“I didn’t just go up against the best in the world. I beat them,” Kenton-Smith proudly declared after running a tough gauntlet.

A colourful personality

While Kenton-Smith’s performances on the field were awe-inspiring, his presence off the field was equally striking. At the historic Esplanade des Invalides venue, he stood out with his green and gold hair, a bucket hat adorned with a wedge-tailed eagle feather, and a stuffed kangaroo by his side. 

Between rounds, he energised the crowd, dancing to the venue’s music and encouraging audience participation, which quickly endeared him to spectators.

Kenton-Smith’s journey has always been about more than just competition. At 14, he promised his grandmother she would one day see him compete in the Paralympics. Although she passed away before his debut in Tokyo, her memory continues to motivate him. 

“That promise was what drove me [there],” Taymon reflected.

Read: L’Oréal Opens First Queensland Warehouse in Ipswich

After his individual event, Kenton-Smith participated in the mixed team event with teammate Amanda Jennings, where they secured a ninth-place finish.

Despite missing out on a medal, Kenton-Smith remains upbeat. “I came here to win and I won the crowd, so that’s definitely something. I will never be forgotten, I’m pretty sure about that.”

Published 08-September-2024

Pool and Horseback to Paralympic Kayak: the Multisport Odyssey of Susan Seipel

Ipswich-born Susan Seipel has faced life with the rare condition Arthrogryposis Multiplex, characterised by joint fusion and absent muscle formation in her legs. Despite enduring countless surgeries since infancy, her indomitable spirit propelled her to excellence in three parasports.

A record-breaking swimmer, an international-level equestrian, and a bemedalled Paralympic kayaker, this unstoppable athlete has her sights set on Paralympic gold.

Read: From Promise to Paralympics: Taymon Kenton-Smith Aims for Glory Beyond Paris

Aquatic beginnings

At four years old, Seipel began swimming as part of her physiotherapy program. Her natural affinity for the water quickly became evident as she first competed alongside able-bodied classmates. Between 1999 and 2001, Seipel set six Queensland State Games records and three Australian National Age records in freestyle and backstroke as a para-swimmer.

Equestrian excellence

Seipel’s sporting journey took a new direction at age seven when she discovered horseback riding at The McIntyre Pony Riding for the Disabled Centre. What started as a therapeutic activity evolved into a passion for equestrian dressage. Her exceptional skill in the sport was recognized with three Australian National Championship titles.

In 2006, she made her international debut at the Pacific Rim Para-Equestrian Dressage International Competition in Canada, winning a bronze medal. However, financial constraints led her to step back from equestrian competition in 2010, marking a significant shift in her athletic career.

Susan Seipel transitions to para-canoe

In 2012, Seipel discovered para-canoeing at a “come and try” day led by Olympian Amanda Rankin. This new sport reignited her competitive spirit, and she quickly excelled in both single kayak and single outrigger canoe disciplines. Her natural talent became apparent as she began competing at national and international levels.

Seipel’s hard work culminated in her participation in Rio 2016, where para-canoe made its debut. She secured a bronze medal in the women’s KL2 200m, becoming the green and gold’s first Paralympic medallist in the sport.

At Tokyo 2020, Seipel added a silver medal in the inaugural women’s VL2 200m event to her collection. Her consistent performances at World Championships and World Cups between Paralympic Games further demonstrate her ongoing commitment to excellence.

Off the water, Seipel has played a crucial role in establishing para-ice hockey in Australia, showcasing her immense versatility and dedication as an athlete.

Read: Play, Fitness, and Heritage: Inside the Reimagined RJ Richardson Park in Goodna

Seipel’s relentless pursuit of excellence continues unabated. Set to make her third Paralympic appearance at Paris 2024, she’s laser-focused on transforming her previous Paralympic podiums into a golden finish.

Published 12-August-2024

From Promise to Paralympics: Taymon Kenton-Smith Aims for Glory Beyond Paris

Springfield Lakes’ para-archer Taymon Kenton-Smith is not just competing; he’s redefining what it means to be a Paralympian. Born with a partial left hand, Kenton-Smith embraces the mantra, “half the hand, twice the effort.”

Read: Play, Fitness, and Heritage: Inside the Reimagined RJ Richardson Park in Goodna

A promise to keep

His journey in archery began at the tender age of six, setting the foundation for a career marked by determination and resilience.

At 14, Kenton-Smith made a pivotal promise to his grandmother that she would see him compete at a Paralympic Games. This promise became the driving force in his athletic journey, propelling him toward his ultimate goal.

Kenton-Smith’s Paralympic debut at Tokyo 2020 realised his long-held promise at age 27. Competing in the men’s individual recurve event, he secured 18th position and was eliminated in the 1/16 Elimination Round. Despite the early exit, Kenton-Smith expressed pride in fulfilling his promise and representing Australia on the world stage.

Teaming up with fellow debutant Imalia Oktrininda, Kenton-Smith also competed in the Open Mixed Team Recurve 1/8 Elimination. While the pair didn’t progress to the quarter-finals, the experience proved invaluable for the Paralympian.

Overcoming self-doubt and honouring his Nanna

However, Kenton-Smith’s journey wasn’t always smooth. Behind his achievements lies a battle with self-doubt.

“There were naysayers everywhere, and the biggest naysayer was the person looking at me in the mirror every day,” he admits. This self-awareness has shaped his approach to competition and training.

To honour his grandmother, Kenton-Smith has an Agitos–the Paralympic symbol–tattooed on his forearm. The tattoo includes a flaming arrow with the words “Thank you Nanna,” a tribute to the woman who drove him to greatness in more ways than one.

Taymon Kenton-Smith in Paris and beyond

Kenton-Smith’s Paris schedule is as follows:
Individual Recurve Open Ranking Round: 29 August, 9:00 p.m.
Elimination: 4 September, 5:00 p.m.
Quarterfinal to Final: 5 September, 1:30 a.m.

Afterwards, he’ll be joined by multi-sport athlete Amanda Jennings in the mixed team portion:
Mixed Team Recurve Open Elimination: 5 September, 6:00 p.m.
Medal Rounds: 6 September, 1:15 a.m.

What drives him now is a vision beyond just winning medals. While Taymon is training hard for Paris 2024, his motivation extends beyond Paralympic glory; he routinely speaks on behalf of both the Paralympics and Archery Australia at various panels and public speeches, endorsing the great sport of para-archery.

As  Brisbane 2032 approaches, Taymon is not just training for his events but is also actively shaping the future of the sport through his advocacy and mentorship.

Read: Man With Autism Fights for Life After Brutal Bashing in Springfield Lakes

In Paris 2024, Kenton-Smith stands as a strong contender in Australia’s six-member archery squad. With 160 athletes across 17 sports, the Paralympic team represents a blend of experience and fresh talent.

With the Paralympics in full swing, schedule changes remain possible. For the latest updates and information, check out the official Paralympics website.

Published 12-August-2024