“Throughout all of this, I have still been working full-time to pay the daily bills and cover the costs of international competition.”Jeremy Peacock
TGS Old Boy (2005-2009) Jeremy Peacock, has been selected to compete in the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games.
During Jeremy's time at TGS he represented the School in numerous endeavours but was particularly known for his contributions to the Arts, particularly music. On the sports field, Jeremy represented TGS in GPS Athletics, Cross Country, Cricket and Football. Under the guidance of Mr Mark Oliphant during his Cross Country days, all Jeremy wanted to do was run fast and be like everyone else. However, unbeknownst to many during his time at TGS, he was suppressing a life-long condition.
Jeremy's journey to this point is nothing short of extraordinary.
Born three months premature and diagnosed with hemiplegia cerebral palsy due to a lack of oxygen to the brain, his early years were marked by numerous surgeries and specialist appointments. Throughout the majority of his life, Jeremy did not consider himself impaired and was determined to compete in all sports against his fellow able-bodied athletes.
Despite his physical challenges, Jeremy's resilience and passion for sport have been unwavering. Initially a runner inspired by his father, a former professional ultra-marathoner, Jeremy transitioned to cycling after facing constant injuries from running. His foray into triathlon in 2016 sparked a new passion, leading to his eventual classification as a PTS4 Para triathlete in early 2020.
Jeremy's breakthrough came in 2022, his first international season, where he secured gold and silver in World Para Series races and clinched 3rd place at the World Para Triathlon Championships. Now, with the Paris Paralympics in sight, he faces the financial realities that often accompany elite-level sport, particularly para-sport in Australia.
Balancing a full-time job to cover living expenses and competition costs, Jeremy has been taking annual leave or leave without pay to participate in international events. Despite these challenges, he remains committed to giving his all in the pursuit of his Paralympic dream.
Jeremy writes in his blog, documenting the final three months of his preparation for Paris. "Unfortunately, this is the reality of sport in Australia, especially para-sport, but I am making sure I'm doing everything in my power to make it to these Games. I don't want to be sitting back in 6 months' time going, 'I wish I should, I could've.'"
Jeremy's informal blog provides an intimate glimpse into the life of a high-level para-athlete, shedding light on the physical and financial challenges faced by those striving to represent their country on the world stage. As the countdown to Paris continues, Jeremy is reaching out to the community for support.
“I am grateful for any support that can help me get to Paris.”Jeremy Peacock
"Every contribution, no matter how small, brings me one step closer to representing Australia at the Paralympic Games."
You can also follow his blog for updates and insights into his preparation and experiences leading up to the biggest race of his life, along with links to support Jeremy on his journey to Paris 2024 Paralympic Games.
His advice to current students at TGS is to become fully immersed in the TGS life as you will form fond memories and I truly believe that my time at Grammar with its highs and lows, shaped me into the man I am today.
“Do what makes you happy; it doesn't have to make sense to anyone else and set your sights high as you never know what you are capable of, something I am still learning to this day.”— Jeremy Peacock
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