The Next Chapter
My last international race is officially behind me! It's been an incredible journey, and I’m grateful to have closed the door on what has been 13 unforgettable years of my life. Never did I expect to stay in the game this long competing against athletes half my age and enjoying every minute of it! The friendships I’ve made are lifelong, and I feel fortunate to have had the chance at my final race to tell some of these amazing people just how much they’ve meant to me. It wasn’t a “goodbye,” but more of a “goodbye for now.”
In that career I have been to 3 Paralympic Games winning 3 Gold and 1 Silver, competed at 9 World Championships winning 9 Gold and 5 Silver medals. I have been a World Cup overall winner twice and come away after these 13 years with 24 Gold, 5 Silver and 2 Bronze medals at World Cups. With other international races I have come home with 7 Gold medals. I am leaving feeling proud and hoping that my legacy will be “It’s never too late.” Age should not stop us from doing what we are passionate about.
So, what comes next? Life is funny that way—always evolving. Now, I find myself entering Carol version 6!
Version 1: Elite swimmer in Canada
Version 2: Police officer in Toronto
Version 3: Moving to Australia, getting married, and starting a career at Australia Post
Version 4: Life with MS & Founding the 24 Hour Mega Swim and raising $11 million in 20 years
Version 5: Representing Australia in Para Sport—first rowing, then cycling
Version 6: ????
In this new chapter, I’m embracing uncertainty and the excitement of trying new things. Who knows? Maybe I’ll take up Wheelchair Curling or even give Shooting Para Sport a go. What’s certain is that I’ll never stop riding my bike—it’s my freedom, my joy, and my daily escape.
One thing that will never change is my love for speaking. I’m passionate about sharing my journey and inspiring others, whether it’s in schools or with businesses. Hearing from people about how they’ve connected with my FORCE Within methodology—being Fearless, Original, Resilient, Courageous, and Embracing life—brings me immense joy.
So here’s to Carol version 6—I’m ready for whatever comes next! And who knows? Maybe you have a suggestion for what this new chapter could hold!