On Saturday, March 29, 2025, the much-anticipated Maurie Plant Meet took place at Lakeside Stadium in Melbourne, drawing a sold-out crowd of 10,000 eager fans. This event not only highlighted the prowess of Australia’s elite athletes but also marked a significant moment for para-athletics as the nation gears up for the Brisbane 2032 Paralympics. Among the stars of the day were both seasoned champions and rising talents, each showcasing their skills on this grand stage.
As the sun began to set, the atmosphere was electric, with fans buzzing in anticipation of the races. The spotlight was particularly on the Ambulant 100m races, which kicked off at 5:48pm and 5:56pm. These races are crucial for promoting para-athletic events, especially as the Brisbane Paralympics approach. James Turner, a T36 athlete and one of the most decorated Paralympians, was a highlight of the program, aiming to break his own world record. Turner, who has claimed four Paralympic gold medals and seven world titles, is not just a formidable competitor; he’s also a beacon for the future of para-athletics.
“The para races at Maurie Plant will have the highest probability of a world record being broken,” Turner remarked, underscoring the significance of the event. His determination to perform against a strong field, including fellow para-athletics captain Chad ‘The White Tiger’ Perris, only adds to the excitement. Perris, who has also made a name for himself as a Paralympic medallist, emphasized the need for visibility for para-events. “People are going to the Brisbane Paralympic Games and will be looking for personalities to support and follow along with,” he stated. “It will be so much better for those Brisbane crowds to start learning those names as soon as possible.”
Alongside Turner and Perris, young stars like Mali Lovell and Rhiannon Clarke were also set to make their mark. Lovell and Clarke, both global medallists at just 20 and 22 years old, are already making waves in the para-athletics circuit. Clarke, fresh off an Oceania Record at the Delhi Grand Prix, expressed her excitement about the event: “These races will be one of the highlights of the night.”
As the para-races concluded, the main event of the evening, the men’s 100m, took center stage. Lachlan Kennedy, Australia’s fastest man this year, continued his dominance in the sprinting scene, clocking an impressive 10.17 seconds despite battling a headwind. “I didn’t have the best start but considering the conditions, I’ll take that,” said reigning national champion Sebastian Sultana, who finished second in 10.29 seconds. Rohan Browning, the Paris Olympian, secured third place with a time of 10.30 seconds. The crowd’s energy was palpable, with fans cheering loudly as the athletes showcased their speed and skill.
The women’s 100m race featured Paris Olympic semi-finalist Bree Rizzo, who pulled away from the competition to win decisively in 11.35 seconds. Rizzo’s performance further solidified her status as a top contender in Australian athletics.
In a surprising turn of events, the women’s javelin saw a major upset as Lianna Davidson, a US-based college student, triumphed over world championships medallist Mackenzie Little. Davidson’s winning throw of 61.06 meters eclipsed Little’s best of 59.66 meters, marking a significant achievement for the young athlete.
Ellie Beer continued her strong form from the world indoor championships, winning the women’s 400m. The 22-year-old was part of the 4x400m relay team that recently secured a bronze medal in China, demonstrating her prowess on the track.
As the night wrapped up, the success of the Maurie Plant Meet was evident not just in the times posted on the track but also in the stories shared by athletes. The event served as a crucial platform for para-athletes to shine, proving that they deserve a prominent place in the spotlight. As James Turner aptly put it, “We can do a lot for this sport, I promise you that.”
With the Brisbane 2032 Paralympics on the horizon, the call for increased visibility and support for para-athletics has never been more urgent. As athletes like Turner and Clarke continue to break barriers, it is essential for fans and media alike to rally behind them, ensuring that their journeys are celebrated and recognized.
The Maurie Plant Meet not only showcased the best of Australian athletics but also paved the way for future stars, reminding everyone that the para-athletes are ready to take their place alongside their Olympic counterparts. With a commitment to inclusivity and recognition, the future of athletics in Australia looks bright.
As fans left Lakeside Stadium, the message was clear: the journey for para-athletics is just beginning, and with support, the athletes will continue to inspire and excite for years to come.
