Young para-athlete Nathan Donaldson’s goal of representing Australia at the Tokyo Paralympics is within reach after he was selected on the Paralympian long list.
He recently attended a presentation, registration and uniform sizing.
While he said there was no guarantee of his selection for the games, the process had increased his determination to wear the green and gold.
“It has been pretty inspiring for me and I felt honoured to be there preparing for the Paralympics,” Nathan said.
“That is one of the final stepping stones for me to feel like I have achieved my goals in my sport.
“I enjoyed trying on the clothes and now I have to train hard to wear them.”
During the event the aspiring Paralympians were treated to a video about what it means to be selected.
“I kept getting goose bumps watching their presentations.
“Going away to sport related camps, events and meetings always motivates me more as I am amongst other wheelchair racers.
“Because I got a small taste of what would be happening I want to get there even more.”
Nathan enjoyed the opportunity to meet with other athletes and even bumped in to Bundaberg Para shooter Chris Pitt at the presentation.
“It is always good to catch up with Chris as he often has words of advice and support for me.”
He said he was grateful for the support he received which made trips like these possible including sponsorship, fundraising and Bundaberg Regional Council’s Young Person in Sport grant.
