Shawcroft inspires with strength and resilience

WONTHAGGI local Ethan Shawcroft has continuously shown his strength and resilience competing in parra sports and spreading awareness of positive mental health to his community. 

Ethan most recently competed in Canberra for the wheelchair sports NSW/ACT GIO summer down under series, and the Sydney OZ Day 10km marathon.

He competes against athletes from around the world, including America, Japan and New Caledonia and is currently being coached by Australian paralympic and world Champion Richard Colman. 

Ethan proudly came home with a bronze medal for the 800 metre race in Canberra. 

“I like to seek out challenges and to face them head on. Whether it be in the competitive world or at home, and I surround myself in nature as much as possible,” said Ethan. 

Ethan’s achievements have seen him compete in the 10km 2023 XCR at Albert Park with a 44:8 result, and he positioned fifth in the Victorian open and Under 20 Victorian track and field championships in 2023 for 100 meters. 

At the GIO summer down under most recently in 2024, Ethan achieved the following results: 100m 19.37, 200m 37.10, 400m 1:09.84, 800m 2:38.23, and 1.5km with a time of 4:41.41, - as well as competing in the OZ Day 10km Sydney marathon. 

“Being from the small town of Wonthaggi, I grew up as a cattle/dairy farmer until I could no longer at the age of 17, but my interest still sits with agriculture, horticulture, landscaping, and Landcare, as well as wood and steel construction. 

“I enjoy keeping my mind occupied by doing self-study in other fields, such as psychology and physiology, and above all else helping and guiding others in my spare time,” Ethan explained. 

Ethans strength and determination is inspiring to his peers, and he is currently training with rowing Victoria to start another path in competitive sport and continue his message of fitness and mental health within the local community.