Join AUS Squad
Paddling Gave Curtis McGrath ‘A Purpose, A Goal And A Dream’
Australian Para-canoeist and former soldier, Curtis McGrath admits he was feeling lost before he found paddling. Now, he has a new purpose and a dream.
A mine blast in Afghanistan took both of McGrath’s legs, changing his life forever.
“I remember being on the stretcher and saying, ‘One day you’ll see me at the Paralympics’,” McGrath said.
It wasn’t only a promise but a purpose to move forward, with hope.
Less than two years later, McGrath broke a world record and won the 200-metre VL2 world title in Moscow. He’s since taken home 14 gold medals and one silver, including consecutive golds at Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020.
“When I was a little bit lost, lost a bit of my identity about who I was and where I was going, I found sport,” he said.
“Paddling specifically gave me purpose, gave me a goal and gave me a dream.
“When I crossed the line in Rio (2016 Paralympic Games) the reality was actually this huge wave of relief and everyone behind me made the win very, very special.”
McGrath was then selected to carry the Australian flag at the Closing Ceremony.
“Being the flag bearer in the Closing Ceremony was a magical moment,” he said.
“It’s not something that a debut athlete would expect to be singled out and given that honour.
“That’s definitely one of my proudest moments.”
McGrath holds another honour close to his heart, named co-captain of the Australian Paralympic Team for the 2024 Paralympic Games.
“Being seen as a leader, a senior athlete in the squad and becoming a co-captain of Paris 2024 – Para-sport has given a lot to me and I’m incredibly grateful,” he said.
