Athletes and administrators recognised in Australia Day honours list

Athletics Australia would like to congratulate four members of the Australian athletics community who have been recognised in the Australia Day honours list, announced yesterday.

Madison de Rozario and Vanessa Low were among those awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia after winning their first Paralympic gold medals for Australia in Tokyo last year, while race walks judge, coach and administrator Bob Cruise and Sport Inclusion Australia Chief Executive Officer Robyn Smith were also adorned with the same honours.

Athletics Australia Chief Executive Officer Peter Bromley said the awards were due recognition for their service to the sport and their country.

“On behalf of Athletics Australia, I’d like to congratulate our two newest Paralympic gold medallists Vanessa Low and Madison de Rozario, as well as two great administrators Bob Cruise and Robyn Smith who have been recognised for their achievements and contribution to our sport,” said Bromley.

“Much has been said about Madison and Vanessa in their endeavours to win gold at the Tokyo Paralympics. Madison brought home two gold medals at her fourth Paralympic Games, while Vanessa Low won her second gold medal but her first for Australia.

“Bob Cruise and Robyn Smith have contributed so much in different ways as administrators. Robyn has collaborated with us for more than three decades, encouraging athletes with intellectual impairments to experience the benefits that athletics has to offer, while Bob Cruise has not only coached athletes to the elite level, but has brought a level of professionalism as a judge.

“Their commitment to athletics and their determination to make a difference in our sport has inspired the nation and each of them deserve to be recognised at this scale.”

By Sascha Ryner, Athletics Australia
Posted: 26/1/2022