Australia’s athletics and Paralympics communities are mourning the death of Nicholas Hum.
A bronze medallist in long jump in 2021 at the Tokyo Paralympics, Hum died in Melbourne on the weekend aged 32.
Paralympics Australia chief executive Cameron Murray said Hum would be “remembered for far more than just medals and results”.
“Our deepest condolences are with his family and loved ones at this difficult time,” Murray said.
“Our heartfelt thoughts are also with his teammates, his coaches and all those who had the privilege of sharing Nick’s journey and experiencing the positive impact he made.
“As Australian Paralympian 989, Nick will be remembered for far more than just medals and results.
“He was an outstanding Paralympian, and his loss will be felt across the Australian Paralympic movement for a long time to come.”
Hum made his international debut at the 2011 IPC Athletics world championships in Christchurch, with his final event being last year’s Paralympics in Paris.
He remains the holder of the Australian record in the long jump T20 at 7.39m.
Australian Athletics chief executive Simon Hollingsworth said: “Nick was a much-loved member of our community and his loss is deeply felt.
“He was respected not only for his commitment to his sport but for the way he showed up for those around him.
“Our hearts are with Nick’s family, friends and teammates and we stand with them in remembering a life that meant so much to so many.”
Victorian Institute of Sport chief executive Nicole Livingstone said Hum was a “remarkable person and an exceptional athlete whose impact reached far beyond the track”.
“During his years as a VIS athlete, he represented Australia with passion and pride,” Livingstone said.
“He embodied those same values in everything he did as both an athlete and alumni as he transitioned from elite sport to skilled trade in his retirement.
“Our thoughts are with Nick’s family and friends as we remember him.”
Hum is survived by his wife Mairead and his three children William, Holly and Paige.
