More than a dozen Deakin University students and alumni, some who have lived, studied or trained in Geelong, will compete in the Tokyo Olympics beginning today.
Among them is Tasmanian-born Paralympic rower Alexandra Viney.
Viney was a promising young rower throughout her high school years but at the age of 18 survived a serious, high-speed car accident, which left her with lasting impairments to her left elbow, forearm and hand.
She graduated a bachelor of exercise and sport science from Deakin University and worked as a sport scientist and strength and conditioning coach in Geelong until 2019.
In November 2018 she began her journey as a para-athlete chasing a second chance at her rowing dream.
She was selected for the Australian Senior Para-Rowing Team in the PR3 mixed coxed four in February 2019.
In May 2019, she debuted for Australia at the Gavirate International Para Regatta placing second in the PR3 four, and fourth at her first World Championships in August 2019, in the bow of her selected boat class.
She is now studying a masters of business at Deakin University and is affiliated with Barwon Rowing Club.
Yesterday, on the eve of the opening ceremony today, Deakin University vice-chancellor Iain Martin congratulated the students and alumni on their selection.
“On behalf of the Deakin community, I congratulate each of the athletes on being selected to compete in the games. We wish them every success,” Professor Martin said.
“Competing in the Olympics is a significant accomplishment at the best of times. However, to do so against the backdrop of the ongoing uncertainty surrounding these pandemic-affected games is genuinely outstanding.
“It is a testimony to their strength, determination and resilience.
“I hope that it also points to the supportive environment the university provides for elite athletes as they balance their studies and sporting commitments and reflects on Deakin’s strengths in sport education and research.
“While there may not be spectators in the stands at Tokyo, our athletes can rest assured that the Deakin community will be cheering them on from their loungerooms.”
Deakin University students and alumni competing in Tokyo:
Hana Basic – Athletics
Eziyoda ‘Ezi’ Magbegor – Basketball
Alex Viney – Rowing
Campbell Watts – Rowing
Rebecca Allen – Basketball
Rhydian Cowley – Athletics
Blake Edwards – Water polo
Henry Frayne – Athletics
Jessica Hansen – Swimming
Jeffrey Riseley – Athletics
Lucy Stephan – Rowing
Brooke Stratton – Athletics
Rowie Webster – Water polo
