ARA First Nations Foundations and QBE Sydney Swans Academy athlete Telaya Blacksmith qualified for the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games. Blacksmith - a proud Walpiri woman originally from the Northern Territory - competed in the T20 400m sprint, setting an Australian record in her heat to qualify for the finals.

The teenager burst out of the blocks and managed to stay near the leaders for fifth in her heat in a personal best 57.96s. With her parents and supporters giving her a hug from the bottom row of the stands, Blacksmith found out she had qualified for a Paralympic final at her first Games.

“I was very nervous, very excited. It was such an amazing experience – I’m so happy I’m here,” she said.

“The stadium was so big and loud. I don’t know how I did it because I’m sure I used up all my adrenalin. And I thought I hadn’t made it and then they told me I had. 

“At such a young age, I now feel like I can achieve anything if I work hard – it’s not impossible.”

Blacksmith will also compete in the long jump. She is one of seven NSW athletes that will compete in the games, to be held from August 28 to September 8 and is one of just a few First Nations Paralympic athletes to represent Australia. 

Currently in Year 11 at Endeavour High School in Sydney, Blacksmith balances her studies with Top End Academy commitments. The talented athlete has been with the Academy since 2020 and is currently a member of the First Nations Foundations program. 

Speaking to Sydney Swans Media, Academy assistant coach Kristie Whittard praised the efforts of Blacksmith. 

"The Academy are so proud of Telaya and her achievements. Her journey to Paralympic qualification represents competitive spirit, hard work and resilience," Whittard said. 

"Telaya’s commitment has been extraordinary, balancing the Academy, athletics, and Year 11 studies and all whilst maintaining her cheeky sense of humour. She’s testament to what athletic ability, determination and exposure to elite programs can achieve.

"We can assure you the Sydney Swans Academy members and community will have their alarm clocks set for very early September 3 in Australia."