It’s Official: A “Wild Dream” Come True
After an impressive 2023 season marked by determination and resilience, Leanne Taylor, a 31-year-old paratriathlete from Oak Bluff, is set to make her Paralympic debut at the 2024 Summer Games in Paris. Securing her spot at the Paralympic Games, Leanne clinched first place at America’s Paratriathlon Continental Championships on March 8th.
Reflecting on her journey, Leanne remarked, “Although it was easy to sum that accomplishment up in one sentence, describing what it took to get there would take a book. Every one of the individuals who have supported me on this journey deserves to share in this success.”
The 2023 season presented numerous challenges for Leanne, including equipment issues, injuries, and setbacks. “At times, I fell short of my expectations and struggled to obtain the results that I believed I was capable of. We soldiered on, focusing on solving the problems that came our way,” she shared. Despite these hurdles, her hard work paid off, culminating in a significant victory at the Continental Championships that showcased her perseverance.
A Winning Road to Paris
Leanne continued her impressive streak with a standout performance at the World Triathlon Para Series in Swansea, Wales, where she claimed her biggest victory so far, completing the course in 1:12:21. “I had a great race out there today, and to get my first WPS win is very exciting. It couldn’t have come at a better time than building towards the Games,” she beamed.
Following her triumph in Swansea, Leanne maintained her momentum at the World Triathlon Para Series in Montreal, securing a silver medal with a time of 1:05:47. “It is really exciting with Paris coming. This is pretty much the full field despite the Australian athlete who isn’t here, so it shows me a podium finish is possible,” she expressed optimistically.
Leanne Taylor’s nomination to the Canadian Paralympic Team was confirmed today, making her dream of competing in the Paralympics a reality. “I set my sights on competing at the Paralympics five years ago, at which time, it was a wild dream,” said Taylor. “To be named to the Canadian Paralympic Team feels surreal. It is such an honour, and I can’t wait to do what I love on the world stage.”
“The mission is by no means accomplished. I have a lot of work to do if I am going to land on the podium in Paris 2024,” Leanne acknowledged. “But I am going to take a small moment to celebrate all that we have accomplished to get here and thank all of the people that I would not be here without. Thank you for your unwavering support. It means the world to me.”
To further prepare for Paris, Leanne will participate in the Peace Garden Triathlon on August 3rd and 4th.
Best of luck in Paris, Leanne!
