Race walker Rhydian Cowley recently qualified for his second Olympic Games in the 20km Walk. Having achieved a second place finish in the 2019 Australian 20km Walk Championships and secured multiple Olympic qualifiers over the last year including a big personal best performance, he is now Australia's 7th all-time fastest walker at the 20km event and is currently ranked 25 in the world. Rhydian has achieved his results despite currently being only a part-time, unfunded athlete. He has previously represented Australia at the 2016 Rio Olympics, the 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games, multiple IAAF World Championships, six World Race Walking Cups, the 2015 Universiade, and the 2010 IAAF World Junior Championships.

Rhydian has set a further goal for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, that being to also qualify for the 50km Walk. He is determined to represent his country at both events, a feat rarely achieved by Australian walkers over the years. For both events, but particularly for the 50km event, it is critical that he has sufficient time available for all the training and preparation involved. That is only possible if he is able to at least halve his current 55 hours weekly work/travel time, to enable him to prepare in a more professional and appropriate manner.

There are very significant costs in preparing for Tokyo, including for coaching fees, travel and accommodation to events and training venues, rent, physiotherapy, equipment, gym and nutrition. Money raised through this platform will help offset those significant preparation costs Rhydian has already incurred over the last year or more, help provide funds for him to undertake thorough preparations for Tokyo, and allow him to work towards his goal of becoming a world top-8 walker and potential Olympic medallist.

You can check out Rhydian's Twitter and Facebook links near the Donations tab above.

Help Rhydian make his Tokyo dream reality, donate today! Through Rhydian's partnership with the Australian Sports Foundation, all donations of $2 or more are tax deductible!