Jake Lappin, hailing from Victoria’s oldest inland town of Kilmore, is quickly making a name for himself in the world of wheelchair racing. He became involved in athletics when he attended a racing-specific training camp and has gone from strength to strength ever since.

He competes in the T54 class alongside legendary Australian Paralympians Kurt Fearnley and fellow Victorian Richard Colman. While not quite at Kurt or Richard’s level - his career is only in its infancy - Jake is ranked 17 in the world in both the 400m and 800m. While he may not have the medals yet, when asked what separates him from the rest of his strong field, he believes it is his ability to expertly style his hair.

Jake first competed for Australia at the 2008 IWAS Junior World Championships in Switzerland. However, the highlight of his fledgling career to date is his selection for the 2010 Commonwealth Games in Delhi. Racing in the men’s 1500m, Jake finished seventh in the 10-man final, five seconds behind winner Kurt Fearnley. The same year, Jake dominated at the 2010 National Underage Championships, taking home five gold medals. He looked in good shape for London 2012 at the 2011 National Championships, winning four bronze medals.

When not studying, training or competing Jake enjoys hanging out with his mates and playing the guitar and drums. An incredibly fit athlete, Jake has the eye catching ability to perform push ups without use of his legs.

Jake especially enjoys listening to the music of electronic music duo Daft Punk and would like to continue a career in sport, aiming to one day own a gym.