A keen participant and follower of sport, shot put expert Noni Thompson is in her element competing on the athletics field.

She was involved in a serious car accident in 2004, acquiring a brain injury that Noni feared would prevent her from achieving her sporting aspirations. But post-accident, she was absolutely thrilled at finding she could still throw the shot put and javelin, setting her on course towards the Paralympic Games.

Two years after her accident, she was chosen to represent Australia in two events at the 2006 FESPIC Games in Malaysia. She did not disappoint either, bringing home silver in javelin and bronze in shot put. At her first Paralympic Games in Beijing, Noni finished 10th in the discus and 11th in the shot put but believes the experience was the most valuable thing she took away with her.

Noni has since continued to improve, setting a personal best throw of 7.98m in shot put at the 2011 IPC World Championships in Christchurch, finishing sixth. Her continual progression was further highlighted when she won gold in the shot put at the 2011 National Championships, which was backed up by a bronze medal in discus.

Outside of the athletic arena, Noni likes spending time with her family and friends, going to the gym, swimming and using the computer to do her TAFE course. She is somewhat of a good cook too, specialising in Asian cuisine. Noni is partial to the odd good movie, and particularly enjoyed Fifty First Dates.

On the journey towards becoming a Paralympian, Noni says the support offered by her family, friends and carers was invaluable. Their ongoing support, along with her own determination, will carry her towards the London 2012 Paralympic Games.