Wheelchair donation shows Nathan’s heart of gold

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Nathan Donaldson donated his old racing chair frame to young Josh Brass. Contributed
Nathan Donaldson donated his old racing chair frame to young Josh Brass. Photo: Contributed

Coming home from state championships with three gold medals couldn’t compare to the feeling Nathan Donaldson had after donating an old racing chair frame to an up-and-coming racer.

The Bundaberg wheelchair athlete competed in the 100, 200 and 400 metre races at the Queensland Athletic Championships on the weekend, winning gold in all three events.

The 100m was his best and most competitive race, with two open wheelchair racers lined up against him.

“I was very happy with what my times were because of how new the track is,” Nathan said.

However the highlight of the weekend was when Nathan handed over his old racing chair frame to young Josh Brass from Beenleigh, who is a 9-year-old competitor in wheelchair racing and many other sports.

“In my eyes it’s very important to help younger racers,” Nathan said.

“Coming from how I started I was fortunate to work with Rheed McCracken in the beginning. I had to get my own first chair, they are very expensive.

“So to be able to give the chair to Josh, he won’t have to spend thousands on a chair he will grow out of.

“It’s very important to have a good community in the sport. Helping out the young kids makes them feel included and less alone.

“It makes me happy to make their load lighter.”