Paige Greco, a Paralympian who won a gold medal at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, has tragically passed away at the age of 28.
The news was announced by AusCyling in a press release on Monday, Nov. 17, saying that the an Australian cyclist passed away at her home in Adelaide, Australia, after “experiencing a sudden medical episode.” Greco was born with Cerebral Palsy.
Along with winning in 2020, Greco broke the world record in the Women’s C1–3 3000m Individual Pursuit, and added two bronze medals to her collection due to her efforts in the C1–3 Road Race and Time Trial in Tokyo.
Paige Grego’s Mother Says Her Daughter ‘Meant Everything To Us’
Greco’s mother, Natalie Greco, remembered her daughter with a touching note in the organization’s statement.
“Paige meant everything to us. Her kindness, her determination and her warmth touched our family every single day. She brought so much joy and pride into our lives, and the pain of her passing is something we will carry forever,” her mother said. “While we are devastated by her loss, we are incredibly proud of the person she was and the way she represented Australia.
“As a family, we are deeply grateful for the support shown by so many people connected to Paige, including her teammates and friends. Paige cherished the connections she made through her sport, and we take comfort in knowing how widely she was loved,” she continued. “We are grieving deeply and ask for privacy, time, and space to navigate this overwhelming loss.”
The Cycling Community Pays Tribute
GettyThe Chief Executive Officer of AusCycling also included a note in the statement.
“We are heartbroken by the tragic news of Paige’s death. Paige was an extraordinary athlete who achieved outstanding accomplishments at the highest levels of our sport. Much more than that, she touched the lives of everyone around her with her positive spirit and courageous outlook,” Marne Fechner said. “Our thoughts and condolences are with Paige’s family, friends, teammates, coaches and support staff, past and present, during this incredibly sad and difficult time.”
As did the Chief Executive Officer of Paralympics Australia.
“We extend our deepest condolences to Paige’s loved ones and to those who were closest to her. The sadness being felt across Paralympics Australia today is a reflection of the enormous regard in which she was held,” Cameron Murray detailed. “Paige was an extraordinary athlete, but more importantly, a remarkable person. As a Paralympian, Paige represented Australia with a level of commitment and composure that earned the admiration of everyone who had the privilege to watch her compete or to work alongside her.
“Her 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,” he added.”
Her family has my condolences. 🥺