Hello! My name is Alyssa (AJ) Gillespie, and I’m an 18-year-old Australian Para Swimmer chasing a place on the international stage. Being born and growing up with significant medical challenges (including 25 operations), my love for swimming and the training schedule required has given me insight into what is possible with hard work and determination.

While completing Year 12, I train 25 hours a week as I prepare for my first international competition, at the World Para Series, with the ultimate goal of winning gold for Australia at the 2028 Paralympic Games. Recently announced on the Australian Dolphins squad, I have been selected to represent Australia at the 2026 Commonwealth Games. Taking me another step closer to hopefully representing Australia at the 2028 Paralympic Games.  

Although my swimming career has been relatively short, I currently hold 13 national records and won a gold medal at the 2025 Australian Swimming Trials in the Open MC 50m Backstroke event. More recently, in April this year, I competed at the Australian AGE and OPEN Swimming Championships where I came first in 16-18yrs 100m Breaststroke, 2nd in the 16-18yrs 100m Backstroke and 50m Breaststroke and 3rd in 16-18yrs 50m Backstroke.  

I’m raising funds to assist myself in covering the essential costs of elite sport, including travel, competition entry and attire (competition swimwear costs $1,000 per suit) as well as daily preparation as I step onto the international stage. Your support will allow me to fully focus on my training and performance and assist me with my ongoing competitive schedule. 

Thank you for supporting my dream and helping me take the next step toward the podium.

Above all, I hope my journey shows young people with disabilities that their potential is limitless! xo

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