Russell
Boaden

Russell Boaden first began sailing in 2004 as part of Royal Perth Yacht Club’s Sailability program, designed to facilitate sailing for people with a disability.

Making his international debut in 2006, Russell competed at his first IFDS World Disabled Sailing Championships in Rochester, USA the following year, where he and his crew placed eighth.

At the 2008 Paralympic Games in Beijing, Russell exceeded expectations when he and teammates Colin Harrison and Graeme Martin won bronze in the 3-person keelboat, matching silver medallists France on points.

Russell returned to the international stage in 2013, combining with Colin and Jonathan Harris to win two bronze medals and a silver at the 2013, 2014 and 2015 IFDS World Disabled Sailing Championships, respectively.

Taking this form with them into Rio 2016, they were dominant throughout their Games campaign, placing first in three races and second in four to win their first ever Paralympic gold medal and be named a part of Paralympics Australia’s Team of the Year.

Hamel local Russell is employed as a chef, specialising in food presentation and sculptures, and enjoys playing golf in his spare time.