Taylor Gosens, a former student of St Aidan’s Anglican Girls’ School in Corinda, is set to make history as only the second woman to represent Australia in Para-judo at the upcoming 2024 Paris Paralympics.
Gosens, who was born with a congenital eyesight condition leaving her with just four percent vision, initially pursued her passion for music while at St Aidan’s. Her time at the school saw her delve into sound engineering studies and take up drumming, showcasing her diverse talents and determination to overcome challenges.
The 26-year-old’s journey from music enthusiast to elite athlete is nothing short of inspirational. After leaving Brisbane to study Entertainment Management at the Australian Institute of Music in Sydney, Gosens discovered judo as a stress management tool during her studies. What began as a coping mechanism soon blossomed into a competitive career.
Gosens’ rapid rise in the sport is evident from her recent achievements. In September, she secured her first international victory against Great Britain at the IBSA Judo Grand Prix in Baku, Azerbaijan, finishing in the top 8. This success followed her impressive performance at the 2022 Australian Nationals, where she clinched gold in the VI (visually impaired) competition and silver in the able-bodied 78 kg class.
As Gosens prepares for the Paris Paralympics under the guidance of coach Ivica Pavlinic, she carries with her the support of her hometown and the legacy of her father, Gerrard Gosens, a three-time Paralympian. Taylor’s participation in the Games marks not just a personal achievement, but a continuation of a family tradition of excellence in Paralympic sport.
The Corinda community eagerly awaits Gosens’ performance in Paris, where she will not only represent Australia but also serve as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring athletes with visual impairments everywhere.
Published 12-August-2024
