BREAKING: Amanda Reid, a celebrated Summer Paralympic gold medallist, has just been named to Australia’s para snowboard team, making her the first Indigenous Australian to compete at a Winter Paralympic Games. This historic announcement was made on Wednesday, as the team prepares for the Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympic Games, beginning next week.
Reid, a proud Wemba-Wemba and Guringai woman, has already made waves in the sports world, winning gold in cycling at both the Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024 Games, alongside a silver at the Rio 2016 Games and competing in swimming at the London 2012 Games. Her transition into snowboarding in 2023 culminated in a stunning world championship gold medal that same year.
At just 30 years old, Reid is one of four athletes confirmed for the para snowboard team, alongside fellow competitors Aaron McCarthy, Ben Tudhope, and team captain Sean Pollard. The full Australian team will be announced later this week, but the excitement surrounding Reid’s inclusion is palpable.
“Amanda’s journey is extraordinary,” said Ben Troy, Australian Paralympic Team Chef de Mission. “She has already reached the pinnacle of Paralympic sport yet continues to challenge herself in new arenas. Stepping onto the snow at Milano Cortina is not just another competition for her, it’s a moment of national significance. She’s opening doors, honouring her heritage, and showing young Indigenous Australians that no dreams are beyond reach.”
The announcement comes as the team gears up for what promises to be an exhilarating competition. For Ben Tudhope, who is returning for his fourth Winter Games, the thrill of having teammates alongside him is more significant than his own achievements. “I was the only snowboarder in Beijing on the Australian team,” he remarked. “It’s funny, I care less about myself. I care more about the sport and the growth of the Paralympic movement.”
Tudhope clinched Australia’s only medal (a bronze) at the 2022 Beijing Winter Paralympic Games, and he made his Paralympic debut at just 14 years old during the Sochi 2014 Games, becoming the youngest Australian to compete at a Winter Paralympic event. He expressed optimism about the growth of para-snowboarding, stating, “Firstly, I think my sport is incredible. Para-snowboarding has grown so much, and the skill level has gotten so much better too.”
Joining Reid and Tudhope, Aaron McCarthy will make his Paralympic debut at 31 years old, while Sean Pollard, age 34, returns for his second Games after a break since the PyeongChang 2018 event. Pollard’s leadership has already garnered respect among team members, and he has been named captain of the entire Australian team for the upcoming Winter Paralympic Games.
“What excites me most about this para snowboard team is the mix of experience, talent, and sheer heart,” Troy emphasized. “Ben’s experience across four Games, Sean’s leadership, and Aaron’s emerging firepower – they have the balance and depth to make a real impact.”
With the Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympic Games just around the corner, all eyes will be on Reid and her teammates as they prepare to showcase their skills on the international stage. This milestone not only celebrates Reid’s groundbreaking achievement but also serves as an inspiration for future generations of Indigenous Australians.
Stay tuned for more updates as the full Australian team is announced later this week and as the excitement builds for the Winter Paralympics.
