Champion Australian cyclist Paige Greco, a Paralympic gold medallist on the velodrome who competed on the world stage as recently as last month, has died. She was 28.
AusCycling and Paralympics Australia said in a joint statement on Monday that Greco had died in her Adelaide home after a sudden medical episode.
“Paige meant everything to us,” her mother, Natalie Greco, said.
“Her kindness, her determination and her warmth touched our family every single day. She brought so much joy and pride into our lives, and the pain of her passing is something we will carry forever.
“While we are devastated by her loss, we are incredibly proud of the person she was and the way she represented Australia.
“As a family, we are deeply grateful for the support shown by so many people connected to Paige, including her teammates and friends. Paige cherished the connections she made through her sport, and we take comfort in knowing how widely she was loved.
“We are grieving deeply and ask for privacy, time and space to navigate this overwhelming loss.”
Paige Greco celebrates winning gold at the Tokyo 2021 Paralympics. Getty
AusCycling chief executive Marne Fechner paid tribute to Greco.
“We are heartbroken by the tragic news of Paige’s death,” Fechner said.
“Paige was an extraordinary athlete who achieved outstanding accomplishments at the highest levels of our sport.
“Much more than that, she touched the lives of everyone around her with her positive spirit and courageous outlook.
“Our thoughts and condolences are with Paige’s family, friends, teammates, coaches and support staff, past and present, during this incredibly sad and difficult time.”
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