Turner wins AIS Male Para Athlete of the Year

Paralympic gold medallist James Turner has capped off another standout year, claiming the Male Para Athlete of the Year Award at the annual Australian Institute of Sport Sport Performance Awards (ASPAs) overnight.

In front of 380 people in Melbourne, Turner was recognised for winning gold in both the 100m and 400m T36 at his third World Para Athletics Championships in Paris, where he collected his ninth and ten global medals and continued his undefeated run at the event, under the tutelage of his coach, Iryna Dvoskina.

Upon receiving the award, Turner expressed his gratitude, emphasising the quality of sport in Australia.

“It’s an honour to have just be nominated against such tough competition. There are so many good athletes out there and the quality of nominees were incredible this year. Australian sport is doing really well, so it’s good to be amongst that,” Turner said.

“I had a pretty good season opener this year, so I’ve already got my sights set on what’s next and I’m hoping to break a world record.”

Athletics Australia CEO Peter Bromley congratulated Turner for his success in his pursuits.

“James’ accomplishments are a testament to his unwavering dedication and exceptional talent as a sprinter and in winning his gold medals this year, he has inspired countless Australians, and particularly those with a disability, to get involved in athletics,” Bromley said.

“He has set the bar high and continues to redefine what’s possible in para athletics and we look forward to seeing him achieve his goals once again at the pinnacle event in Paris next year.”

Australian Sports Commission (ASC) CEO Kieran Perkins said the event was a wonderful way to celebrate the achievements by Australian athletes throughout 2023.

“The ASPAs are always a great occasion and it reminds us why we do what we do,” Perkins said.

“For many here tonight, the upcoming Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games is about performing when it matters. I’d like to acknowledge the Australian Government for their support in making this possible through the significant investment they make it sport in this country.

“The ASPAs are about performance, both in name and in judging criteria and I’d like to congratulate all the finalists and winners tonight.”

Turner was one of six nominations for Australian athletics at the ASPAs. Other finalists included:

• Maria Strong – Female Para Athlete of the Year
• Nina Kennedy – Female Able Athlete of the Year
• Paul Burgess – Coach of the Year
• Athletics Australia High-Performance Unit – High-Performance Program of the Year
• Mixed 4x2000m Relay Team – Team of the Year

By Sascha Ryner, Athletics Australia
Posted: 30/11/2023