Russell Boaden first began sailing in 2004 as part of Royal Perth Yacht Club’s Sailability program, designed to facilitate sailing for people with a disability.

Making his international debut in 2006, Russell competed at his first IFDS World Disabled Sailing Championships in Rochester, USA the following year, where he and his crew placed eighth.

At the 2008 Paralympic Games in Beijing, Russell exceeded expectations when he and teammates Colin Harrison and Graeme Martin won bronze in the 3-person keelboat, matching silver medallists France on points.

Russell returned to the international stage in 2013, combining with Colin and Jonathan Harris to win two bronze medals and a silver at the 2013, 2014 and 2015 IFDS World Disabled Sailing Championships, respectively.

Taking this form with them into Rio 2016, they were dominant throughout their Games campaign, placing first in three races and second in four to win their first ever Paralympic gold …

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Date of birth
15 December 1969
Sport
Para-sailing
Past Paralympic Games

Beijing 2008, Rio 2016

Impairment
Physical Impairment – Brachial plexus palsy
How acquired
Motorcycle accident
Residence
Hamel, WA
Occupation
Chef
Started competing
2004
First competed for Australia
2006
Sport career highlights

Winning bronze at the 2008 Paralympic Games in Beijing

Greatest sporting moments

West Coast Eagles winning the AFL grand final in 2006

Disciplines

  • Sport: Para-sailing Discipline: 3-person keelboat (Sonar) Classification: 4

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