WAGGA teenager Carly Salmon has has made her mark in the Australian record books with stunning results at the International Paralympic Committee World Championships in France.
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Cheered on by her proud family in Wagga, the Mater Dei Catholic School star has torn through the international competition as the youngest member of the Australian athletics team, which includes Temora paralympian Scott Reardon.
Having celebrated her 14th birthday only days ago, Salmon soared to an Australian record in the 100m T35 semi-final, before creating a new record in the final on Monday, finishing fifth.
Proud as punch, Carly’s oldest sister Renee said the entire family is right behind their very own Australian champion.
“We’re all definitely proud of her,” Renee told The Daily Advertiser yesterday.
“All the family has watched replays on YouTube and we’re all excited for her.
“It’s really unbelievable, a few months ago we wouldn’t have thought it possible so it’s pretty huge.”
Carly suffers from cerebral palsy, which affects most of one side of her body.
Ramping up her ranking to fourth in the world, Carly is competing against athletes twice
her age, including Paralympic gold medallists and world champions.
While parents Cathy and Kevin are watching Carly compete in France, sisters Renee, Jessica and her twin Rebecca are closely watching the results online.
With the entire school barracking for her little sister, Renee said Carly is thrilled with her achievements.
“We spoke to her afterwards and she seemed really pleased,” she said.
“Mum and dad are having a great time, they’ve been travelling around a little bit too and they went to Italy while Carly was in training – they’re loving it.”
Carly will take on the 200m T35 semi-finals on Friday, and will return to Wagga next week.