Ellie Cole

Ellie Cole is an Australian professional swimmer, born on December 12, 1991, in Melbourne. She is considered one of the most successful athletes in Paralympic history. Cole embarked on her professional career after her selection for the Australian Paralympic Swimming Team in 2008. She has won numerous titles, including multiple gold medals in Paralympic games.

Cole is known for her exceptional speed, endurance, technique, and versatility. She has received numerous individual accolades, including the Order of Australia Medal, and holds multiple records, such as the most gold medals won by an Australian woman in Paralympic swimming.

Apart from her athletic prowess, Cole is also recognized for her philanthropy and influence, making significant charitable contributions, and inspiring millions worldwide.

Early Career

• Cole began swimming as a form of rehabilitation after losing her right leg to cancer. She quickly showed a natural talent for the sport and began competing in local and national competitions.

2008 Beijing Paralympics

• Cole made her Paralympic debut in Beijing, winning two bronze medals.

2012 London Paralympics

• In London, Cole won four gold medals and set two world records, establishing herself as a dominant force in Paralympic swimming.

2016 Rio Paralympics

• Cole continued her success in Rio, winning two golds, three silvers, and a bronze medal.

2020 Tokyo Paralympics

• In Tokyo, Cole won two golds and a silver, bringing her total Paralympic medal count to 17.

Australian National Team

• Debut: Made her debut for the Australian National Team in 2008.

Achievements:

• Most successful Australian Paralympic female swimmer: With 17 medals, including nine golds.
• Order of Australia: Awarded in 2014 for her service to sport.

• Events: Primarily specializes in freestyle, backstroke, and butterfly events.
• Skills: Known for her exceptional speed, endurance, and swimming technique. Cole is celebrated for her versatility and ability to excel in multiple swimming styles.

• Family: Cole is close to her family and often credits them for their support throughout her career.
• Philanthropy: Cole is involved in various charitable activities, particularly those related to cancer research and supporting amputees.

• Ellie Cole is celebrated not only for her extraordinary talent and numerous records but also for her resilience, determination, and longevity in professional swimming. Her impact on the sport and her status as an icon extend beyond the pool, inspiring millions of fans around the world.

Most Gold Medals by an Australian Woman in Paralympic Swimming:

• Nine gold medals

Most Medals by an Australian Woman in Paralympic Swimming:

• 17 total medals

Order of Australia:

• Awarded in 2014

Books

• Paralympics Australia (2016) Ellie Cole: A Champion's Journey. Sydney: Paralympics Australia.

Websites

• Paralympics Australia: Information about Ellie Cole’s career and achievements. Available at: https://www.paralympic.org.au
• International Paralympic Committee: Details about Cole’s performance and records at the Paralympic Games. Available at: https://www.paralympic.org

Articles

• ABC News: Ellie Cole: Career in numbers. Available at: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-09-04/paralympics-tokyo-ellie-cole-career-in-numbers/100431932
• The Guardian: Ellie Cole’s career highlights and records. Available at: https://www.theguardian.com/sport/ellie-cole

Interviews and Documentaries

• Ellie Cole: Unstoppable (2020): This documentary provides a detailed look at Cole’s life and career, featuring interviews with her family, friends, and colleagues.
• Various interviews and features on Ellie Cole, covering different aspects of her career. Available at: https://www.abc.net.au