Telaya Blacksmith shines with three gold medals at NSW All Schools

Joseph Guenzler
Joseph Guenzler Published November 2, 2023 at 11.30am (AWST)

Telaya Blacksmith, a formidable T20 athlete, has made a remarkable comeback, securing three gold medals at the New South Wales All Schools Athletics Carnival.

The Walpiri track star had her skills on display by claiming first place in the 100m and 200m events within the 15-16 years AMB Para category.

In an impressive feat, Blacksmith also clinched the top spot in the Long Jump for the same age group, shattering the previous NSW All Schools record.

Her performance has not gone unnoticed, as she has earned a coveted spot on the NSW team.

She is now gearing up for the upcoming competition in Perth this December at the Australian All Schools.

Reflecting on her achievements, Blacksmith expressed her joy, stating, "I'm happy because I'm achieving all of them (gold medals) and making new records".

In addition to her recent triumphs, Blacksmith's journey as an athlete has seen her participate in international competitions, including racing against Paralympians in the 2023 Virtus Games in Vichy, France, earlier this year.

Unfortunately, she didn't get the results she hoped for but had a great time, regardless.

She was able to secure a bronze medal in the 4x200 mixed relay, another bronze in the 4x400m relay, and a third bronze in the 4x100m relay.

In individual events, she achieved a fourth place finish in the 200m, a sixth place finish in the 100m, and a seventh place finish in the 400m.

She was also able to qualify for the finals in long jump in only her first jump.

National Indigenous times also spoke with her mother, Bec, who is incredibly proud of her daughter's achievements.

"We are so proud of her, the whole community is. People love to see her doing well and have been really supportive," she said.

"Heading to France to watch her compete was really special. Being the only teenager in a competition with current paralympians is pretty amazing."

Earlier this year, Blacksmith also signed a deal with Puma this who will also support her, moving forward in her journey.

"Telaya has also partnered with Puma this year which is huge, she is really proud of her partnership with such an awesome brand," Bec added.

"Lots of women have them, we know now it's something we need to always be on the look out for."

"I have absolutely no doubt that Telaya will continue to achieve great things in sport. Her achievements are helping to break down barriers for other young mob to follow in her footsteps which makes her and all of us incredibly proud."

Telaya imparted advice to young athletes who wish to be in her shoes one day, urging them to "go out there and give it a go - go to the people around you who are special, parents, Elders, teachers that help you.

"Go out there and have some fun."

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National Indigenous Times

Disclaimer: This function is AI-generated and therefore may mispronounce.