Six exceptional athletes from Wyndham City set to compete in the 2024 Paris Olympics, representing Australia in taekwondo, steeplechase, artistic swimming, and boxing
The 2024 Paris Olympics are set to be a spectacular event, featuring athletes from all corners of the globe. Among the competitors are six standout athletes from Wyndham, each bringing their unique stories and skills to the international stage.
Bailey Lewis: Men’s 58kg Taekwondo (Werribee)
Bailey Lewis’s journey to the Olympics began in Werribee when he discovered taekwondo at a local fete. Training at City West Taekwondo, he progressed through the ranks, eventually joining the junior fight team. Despite not initially standing out, Bailey’s dedication and discipline propelled him to a world ranking of No. 20 in 2017 and a fifth-place finish at the 2019 World Championships. His perseverance through the COVID-19 pandemic paid off with a bronze medal at the 2022 Korean Open. In 2023, he competed globally, securing his spot at the Paris Olympics by winning gold at the Oceania Olympic qualifying tournament. Bailey’s first event is scheduled for Wednesday, 7th August at 5pm.
Amy Cashin: 3000m Steeplechase (Werribee)
Amy Cashin, originally from Werribee, made her mark in the track and field world by clocking an Olympic steeplechase qualifying time of 9:28.60. Despite several setbacks, including concussions and accidents, Amy’s resilience saw her through to her second Olympic appearance in Paris. Her journey includes representing Australia at the World Cross Country Championships, achieving a personal best of 9:21.46 at the 2022 World Championships, and impressive performances in the Diamond League and national championships. Amy’s first event is on Sunday, 4th August at 6:05pm.
Anastasia Kusmawan: Artistic Swimming (Werribee)
Werribee’s Anastasia Kusmawan’s passion for artistic swimming began at the age of seven, combining her loves for swimming and gymnastics. Competing in her first Australian championships at nine, she later won the Barbara Schembri Perpetual Trophy in 2020. As part of the Australian team, Anastasia secured a top-10 finish at the 2023 World Aquatic Championships, followed by silver and bronze medals at the 2024 World Aquatics Cup in Beijing. Her dedication and skill have earned her a place in the Paris Olympics. Anastasia’s first event is set for Tuesday, 6th August at 3:30am.
Marissa Williamson-Pohlman: Women’s 66kg Boxing (Werribee)
Werribee’s Marissa Williamson-Pohlman is set to make history as the first female Indigenous Australian Olympic boxer. Overcoming a knee injury, Marissa secured her spot at the 2024 Olympics by winning gold at the 2023 Pacific Games. Her boxing journey began in 2019, quickly leading to state and national championships and a Sport Australia Hall of Fame scholarship. Marissa’s story of triumph over adversity, from foster care to Olympic qualification, is truly inspiring. She credits her success to her coach, Kel Bryant, and hopes her journey inspires other kids facing tough circumstances. Marissa’s first event is on Thursday, 1st August at 4:18am.
Dante Exum: Basketball (Tarneit)
Dante Exum, who attended Thomas Carr College in Tarneit, developed his basketball skills during his time there, balancing academics and athletics. Born in Melbourne to American parents, Dante played with the Keilor Basketball Association before moving to Canberra. His father, Cecil Exum, played college basketball with Michael Jordan and went on to the NBA. Dante was the youngest player to join the Boomers national squad at 15, helping Australia to a silver medal at the 2012 FIBA U17 World Championships. In 2013, he played with the Australian Emus at the FIBA U19 World Championships, reaching the semi-finals. Dante’s inclusion in the Paris Olympics squad marks another significant milestone in his impressive career.
Thomas Hodges: Beach Volleyball (Werribee)
Thomas Hodges, who attended Heathdale Christian College in Werribee, is on the path to the Paris Olympics thanks to a serendipitous combination of shared injury rehabilitation with South Australian Zachery Schubert. Thomas grew up in Melbourne and excelled in indoor volleyball, athletics, swimming, cross-country running, and cycling. After graduating, he played with the University of Melbourne team that won national championships and made his debut with the Australian team in 2014. He played professionally in Italy and Germany and found success in beach volleyball. Teaming up with Schubert in 2022, they broke into the world top 10 and won the 2023 Asian Beach Volleyball Championship. Thomas and Zachery have maintained their world ranking ahead of the Olympics. Their first event is on Tuesday, 30th July at 5pm.
As the Paris Olympics approach, these athletes from Wyndham stand ready to showcase their talents and dedication on the world stage, bringing pride to their community and inspiring future generations.
