Join AUS Squad
Back To NewsJames Turner had to wait until the penultimate day of Paris 2024 for his moment to correct the one imperfection on his Paralympic record.
The silver medal at Tokyo 2020 in the 100 metres T36 came down to a slightly mis-timed start when a competitor flinched as they steadied on the blocks.
Turner spent countless hours in training to make sure that mistake didn’t happen again. It worked, but it wasn’t just the start Turner needed to ensure victory. He trailed in the dying metres of the race but drew from a well of determination to power home and claim gold in a Paralympic record time of 11.85.
“I’ve been working really hard with Iryna (Dvoskina, coach) to fix up my start – that’s where I lost it in Tokyo when someone moved beside me,” Turner said.
“But I followed my own race plan today, not thinking about what the other athletes were doing.
“It wasn’t so much revenge for me, it was redemption. I take full responsibility for what happened in Tokyo – I shouldn’t let other athletes dictate how I run. So it’s been redemption for me and vindication for my coach Iryna.
“She’s just wonderful – she’s caring and dedicated her whole life to athletics. She sent me her usual letter this morning saying I’ve done all the work, the track will suit me, she knows that I can do it.”
Turner said winning the 100 was “definitely the hardest one” of his successes but added: “I do my best in every single race, and in every single race I leave a bit of myself out there.”
Turner was later named a Closing Ceremony flag bearer, alongside fellow dual gold medallist Lauren Parker.
Enjoyed this read? Recap Gold Medal No.18 here
By: David Sygall
Published: 27 December 2024
