Paralympics Australia is mourning the loss of Paralympic legends Kevin Coombs OAM PLY and Tracey Freeman, who made significant contributions to the Paralympic movement. Their legacies will be remembered forever. The news was shared by the AUS Paralympic Team on Twitter..
Paralympics Australia is deeply saddened by the passing of Paralympic legends Kevin Coombs OAM PLY and Tracey Freeman, whose remarkable contributions to the Paralympic movement will never be forgotten: https://t.co/D58MxTNN5A#ImagineWhatWeCanDo | @Paralympics pic.twitter.com/zWDDTtNm2N
— AUS Paralympic Team (@AUSParalympics) October 5, 2023
Obituary – Death News : Paralympics Australia is mourning the loss of two Paralympic legends, Kevin Coombs OAM PLY and Tracey Freeman, whose remarkable contributions to the Paralympic movement will forever be etched in history. The news of their passing has left the Paralympic community and the world in deep sorrow.
Kevin Coombs, an Australian wheelchair basketball player, made a lasting impact on the Paralympic world. Born in 1949, Coombs suffered from polio as a child which left him paralyzed from the waist down. Despite this adversity, he became an influential figure in wheelchair basketball and paved the way for future generations of athletes.
Coombs represented Australia in five Paralympic Games, from 1968 to 1984, and captained the national wheelchair basketball team for over a decade. His leadership skills, exceptional talent, and determination led Australia to win their first Paralympic gold medal in wheelchair basketball at the 1976 Toronto Games.
Beyond his sporting achievements, Coombs was a highly respected advocate for disability rights. He fought tirelessly to improve the lives of people with disabilities, campaigning for equal opportunities and inclusion in society. Coombs was honored with the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for his significant contributions to the Paralympic movement and his advocacy work.
Tracey Freeman, another Paralympic icon, made her mark in the world of athletics. Born in 1972, Freeman was diagnosed with cerebral palsy from a young age. Despite the challenges she faced, she became a renowned wheelchair racer and represented Australia in multiple Paralympic Games.
Freeman competed in events ranging from sprints to marathons, displaying exceptional speed, strength, and determination. She won numerous medals throughout her career, including multiple gold medals at the Paralympic Games. Freeman’s success on the track inspired countless individuals with disabilities and showcased the power of perseverance.
Off the track, Freeman dedicated herself to advocating for disability rights and empowering others. She used her platform to raise awareness about the challenges faced by people with disabilities and worked to break down barriers in society. Freeman’s contributions to the Paralympic movement and her tireless efforts to promote inclusivity will leave an indelible legacy.
As the Paralympic community mourns the loss of Kevin Coombs and Tracey Freeman, their legacies will continue to inspire future generations of athletes and advocates. Their achievements, both on and off the field, have shaped the Paralympic movement and have left an enduring impact on the world.
At this time, the cause of their passing has not been disclosed. The news of their deaths has left a profound void in the hearts of those who knew them, but their memory will live on through their extraordinary accomplishments and the lives they have touched.
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Paralympics Australia is deeply saddened by the passing of Paralympic legends Kevin Coombs OAM PLY and Tracey Freeman, whose remarkable contributions to the Paralympic movement will never be forgotten: bit.ly/3rCQcmm #ImagineWhatWeCanDo