McArthur takes out TAC challenge two years in a row

18 May 2009

MEDIA RELEASE: 18 May 2009

The Transport Accident Commission congratulates wheelchair athlete Brett McArthur for winning the TAC Great Ocean Road Wheelchair Athletes’ Challenge for the second year in a row.

The international athlete and TAC client was the fastest in a field of 11 athletes on May 16, with a time of 33 minutes and 47 seconds.

The field included professional wheelchair athletes from across Australia, most of who are regular competitors at events around the world.

It was a hotly contested event with second place getter and Geelong boy Xavier Elsworthy coming in with a time of 34 minutes, 30 seconds and Paralympian Richard Nicholson close behind on 35 minutes and one second.

Saturday’s result follows McArthur’s wins in Melbourne and New Zealand races this year.

McArthur said events like the Wheelchair Challenge highlighted how important it was for people to find interests after an injury or setback.

“Sport encourages me to set goals, be disciplined, investigate ways of improving and learning from mistakes and understand myself physically and mentally,” McArthur said.

“The same principles can be applied to any part of life and progress is always determined by how much you put in.”

“Age hasn’t been an obstacle either, in fact I’m posting personal best times each time I train and compete.”

“Sport has given me opportunities to travel, experience a diversity of cultures and network with others. There is always something to learn as technology advances, often resulting in lifestyle improvement. “ 

“It’s amazing with human spirit, how resilient and determined we can be when we face adversity.”

As the winner of the TAC Wheelchair Athletes’ Challenge, McArthur has won a trip to compete in the Honolulu Marathon in December.

He came third in this renowned international event last year and will be aiming for a win in 2009.

The TAC and Great Ocean Road Marathon Committee introduced the Wheelchair Athletes’ Challenge in 2008 to encourage people of all abilities to strive and succeed in achieving their personal goals.