In 2006, Jack Swift was working as a labourer in his home town of Melbourne, when his right leg was crushed by an excavator, severing it from below the knee. Whilst recovering in hospital, he was introduced to triple Paralympic athletics star Don Elgin, who encouraged him to take up Paralympic sport.

Already a keen sportsman, Jack rose to the challenge and since training with coach and Paralympic gold medallist Tim Matthews in 2009, has made his first Australian team to compete at the 2011 IPC Athletics World Championships in New Zealand. The T44 class is known for its high level of competition and will see Jack line up against South African world champion, Oscar ‘blade runner’ Pistorius in both the 100m and 400m.

Describing himself as dedicated and a perfectionist, sport plays a important role in Jack’s life. While studying exercise science, he also works as a personal trainer and enjoys cycling, swimming, golf and the odd spot of fishing.

The thrill of competition, staying fit and the ultimate goal of competing at the London 2012 Paralympic Games, motivates Jack when training for the 100m, 400m and relays. Having competed at his first major meet at the 2010 Australian National Athletics Championships in Perth, he is keen to improve on his times in Christchurch.

Jack was named 2010 Nivea Face of the Year and was also a finalist in the 2010 Men’s Health Man Competition.