The Central Coast sporting community is beaming with pride as three exceptional athletes prepare to represent Australia on the world stage at the 2024 Paris Olympics, to be held across France.
High jumper Nicola Olyslagers, surfer Molly Picklum and sailor Rhiannon Brown are set to make waves and reach new heights in their respective sports, embodying the region’s spirit of determination and excellence.
Nicola Olyslagers, formerly known as Nicola McDermott, is a name synonymous with high jumping excellence.
Born and raised on the Central Coast, Olyslagers has consistently pushed the boundaries of her sport.
With a personal best of 2.02m, she not only holds the Australian record but also clinched a silver medal at the Tokyo Olympics.
Her relentless pursuit of perfection and her ability to perform under pressure make her a strong contender for gold in Paris.
Olyslager’s journey from local competitions to the global stage is testament to her hard work, resilience, and the support of the Central Coast community.
Molly Picklum, a rising star in the world of surfing, has made significant strides in her career at a young age.
Hailing from Shelly Beach, Picklum has been surfing since she could walk, and her passion for the sport is evident in her impressive performances.
As a member of the World Surf League, she has already made a mark with her fearless style and strategic prowess.
Notably, the surfing competition for the Paris Olympics will be held in Teahupo’o, Tahiti, French Polynesia, renowned for its powerful and challenging waves.
Picklum’s dedication to her sport and her roots in the Central Coast surfing culture inspire many young surfers in the region.
Rhiannon Brown, a sailor from the Central Coast, has been making headlines with her outstanding skills and strategic acumen on the water.
Honing her skills in the Laser Radial class, Brown has competed in numerous international competitions, showcasing her talent and determination.
Her selection for the Paris Olympics in the catamaran hydrofoil class, together with Belmont local Brin Liddell, is a culmination of years of hard work and perseverance.
Brown’s ability to navigate challenging conditions and her competitive spirit will be her greatest assets as she aims for Olympic glory in the intense international competition.
As these three remarkable women prepare to compete in the Olympics, the entire Central Coast community stands behind them, urging them every step of the way.
The opening ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympics will take place on Friday, July 26, at 7.30pm Central European time.
For viewers in Australia, this translates to 3.30am Australian Eastern Standard Time on Saturday, July 27.
Uniquely, this opening ceremony will be held along the Seine River in Paris, making it the first Olympic opening ceremony to take place on water.
Athletes will parade down a 6km route along the Seine, showcasing some of Paris’s most iconic landmarks.