Being an athlete is in my character and I can feel the podium in my reach. With your support, I can become a Paralympian as the first Australian vision impaired athlete to compete in Para Biathlon and Cross-Country Skiing. More importantly I am also the first Australian female on the Para Nordic scene and I hope to inspire some other differently abled Aussies to come join me on the cross country trails too.

In May 2019 Cone-Rod dystrophy changed my life. This diagnosis meaning that my navigation of the world will become increasingly difficult as my eyesight disappears.

With my eyes making the change to low vision, my mind has gained a vision I never knew was possible. I am now on the pathway to compete at the 2026 Winter Paralympics in Italy.

Competing in winter sport from Australia requires extended periods of overseas travel and after a successful trip to Soldier Hollow, Utah in March 2023 I certainly proved that I will be back with a close finish in the rookie race. Before the end of 2023 I certainly was back and spent four weeks in Canmore, Canada training and getting Internationally Classified - Vision Impaired. Being classified enabled me to step up to the start line with my incredible guide Daniel Van der Ploeg and we had two starts and two podium finishes in a small field. I am very proud and excited to have FIS points and a world ranking. While in country we were invited to compete in the local able body biathlon races and had another 2 race starts. Daniel and I came home very proud Australians.

NEXT STEP - SEASON 24/25

1. August training camp with International Coach Kaspar Wirz, Falls Creek
2. World Cup and World Championship Events, Northern Hemisphere
3. Finish season with ranking and plans for 25/26 season and the Winter Paralympics

I am calling for help to fund my vision in becoming a Paralympic Nordic Skier and Para Biathlete and to help fund the equipment I need to compete.  

Your generosity and support are much appreciated.

Kind regards,

Taryn Dickens

Getting to the Podium, your future Paralympian