Carol Cooke

A self-confessed Sudoku addict, Carol Cooke also enjoys cross-stitch embroidery, knitting and swimming. With hobbies like these, it is quite surprising that she is actually a Paralympic rower.

Carol, who has multiple sclerosis, will be competing at Beijing in the new event adaptive rowing, and is very excited by the prospect of winning gold.

Born in Canada, Carol began her sporting career as a young girl at swimming competitions. With breaststroke as her forte, she sought to compete at the 1980 Moscow Paralympics, however Canada boycotted the Games.

Now, with a different country and a different sport, Carol is finally realising her dreams and in 2007, she won the double scull at the National Championships.

On top of her rowing career, Carol also runs a charity, raising money for people with MS. Events, such as the 24 Hour Mega Swim, focus on sport and the proceeds go towards scholarships to help people with MS follow their dreams. In 2006, Carol won the Pride of Australia medal for being an outstanding role model.

With rowing, swimming and charity work, Carol doesn’t have a moment to spare. She believes that life is an adventure to be confronted without fear and strives to make a positive impact on every path she crosses.