## Sophie Pascoe Retires: Eleven-Time Paralympic Champion Ends Era

Dame Sophie Pascoe Bids Farewell to Competitive Swimming

After an illustrious career spanning over two decades, Dame Sophie Pascoe, New Zealand’s most successful Paralympian, has announced her retirement from competitive Para swimming. The news, shared on social media on Thursday, January 30th, 2025, marks the end of an era for the eleven-time Paralympic champion.

“Today, it is indeed with immense pride, deep appreciation, and humility that I officially announce my retirement from competitive swimming,” Pascoe wrote. “This decision marks the end of an remarkable chapter in my life, one defined by perseverance, passion, and an unwavering pursuit of excellence.”

Pascoe’s journey began at the tender age of seven when she first leaped into the pool. Her natural talent quickly caught the eye of Paralympic legends Roly Crichton and Graham Condon, who invited her to join the QEII Swim Club. By eleven, she was making waves on the international stage, and just two years later, at the 2008 Beijing Paralympics, she stunned the world by capturing three gold medals at the young age of fifteen.

Over her remarkable career, Pascoe amassed an astounding collection of 19 Paralympic medals, including 11 golds, across four Paralympic Games. Her dominance extended beyond the Paralympics, with five gold medals claimed at three Commonwealth Games. Notably, she carried the New Zealand flag at both the 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games and the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics, cementing her status as a national icon.

Beyond the medals, Pascoe’s legacy transcends the realm of sports.She emerged as a powerful advocate for inclusion,inspiring countless individuals,especially those with disabilities,to chase their dreams. “Wearing the silver fern and representing New Zealand on the world stage has been the greatest honor of my career. More than the medals and the records, my greatest achievement has been proving that having a disability does not define a person,” Pascoe reflected in her retirement announcement.

Dame Sophie Pascoe Reflects on an Extraordinary Swimming Career

Dame Sophie Pascoe, a name synonymous with excellence in the world of Para swimming, has recently bid farewell to competitive swimming. Her legacy extends far beyond her extraordinary trophy cabinet, which overflows with 19 Paralympic medals, including an astounding 11 golds. Pascoe has become a beacon of inspiration for generations, dismantling stereotypes and advocating for the inclusion of athletes with disabilities.

We sat down with this extraordinary athlete to delve into her remarkable journey and understand what truly propelled her to become the most successful Paralympian New Zealand has ever seen.

A Defining Commitment to the Pool

Archyde: Sophie, congratulations on a truly remarkable career. At what point did swimming become more than just a sport for you?

Sophie Pascoe: It’s funny, I fell in love with swimming when I was just seven years old.It felt magical every time I entered the water. As I grew older, it evolved into somthing much deeper. Swimming gave me a sense of purpose, a platform to express myself, and the opportunity to connect with remarkable individuals. The pool became my haven.

While the competitive stage may have closed for Pascoe, her passion for the sport remains unwavering. “While the pool may no longer be my stage, my love and passion for this sport and its future will never waver,” she states, reflecting on her amazing journey. “Swimming has given me purpose, a passion, a platform, lifelong friendships. It has shaped me in ways I never imagined,and I will forever cherish the opportunities,lessons,and experiences it has given me.”

Her retirement marks the end of an era, yet her influence will continue to inspire countless individuals. “I leave this sport not in sadness but on my own terms, with excitement, a heart full of gratitude, incredible memories, fulfillment, and appreciation for everyone who has been part of this journey,” Pascoe concluded, expressing heartfelt gratitude to her supporters. “Thank you for standing by me on this incredible ride. I’m forever grateful to everyone for your love, support, and belief in me.”

Her impact resonates far beyond her own achievements.Swimming New Zealand CEO Steve Johns echoes Pascoe’s sentiments, stating, “We have been privileged to work with Dame Sophie for around two decades. She has been a leader in and out of the water and an inspiration to athletes, young women, anyone with a disability, and to New Zealanders all around the country.”

Greg Warnecke, CEO of Paralympics New Zealand, adds, “Dame Sophie Pascoe calls time on her incomparable career as a true icon who transcended the sport like few others. She is a household name thanks to her stunning achievements spanning four Paralympic Games, and she also made a notable impact by changing the narrative around disability in Aotearoa New Zealand.”

Sophe Pascoe herself believes her most meaningful contribution lies beyond the medals. “While my Paralympic achievements are incredibly special, the thing I’m most proud of is inspiring others to break down barriers and embrace their potential. I hope my journey shows everyone that anything is possible, regardless of your challenges.”

Sophie Pascoe: A Life Beyond the Pool

Sophie Pascoe’s journey from a young swimmer in the QEII Swim club to a multiple-time Paralympic champion is nothing short of extraordinary.Her story is a testament to unwavering dedication, the power of belief, and the unwavering pursuit of excellence. Remembering those early days, Pascoe reflects, “It was a whirlwind! I was so eager to learn, constantly training, and pushing myself to improve. Roly Crichton and Graham Condon believed in me from the start and helped me develop my skills and reach my potential. Looking back, those early days were filled with a mix of excitement, determination, and endless cups of Milo!”

Beyond her impressive athletic achievements, Pascoe’s commitment to disability inclusion has been equally profound. She uses her platform to inspire the next generation, sharing her message of hope and empowerment: “Never let anyone tell you what you can or cannot achieve. Have the confidence to chase your dreams, no matter how big they seem. Disability does not define you – your passions, your talents, and your spirit do. Embrace your individuality, work hard, and believe in yourself. You are capable of amazing things!”

Now, as Pascoe steps into a new chapter, she remains keen about the future. While acknowledging the cherished memories of her time as a competitive swimmer, she looks forward to exploring new passions, spending quality time with loved ones, and continuing to advocate for a more inclusive world.

How has Dame Sophie Pascoe used her platform to advocate for disability inclusion?

dame Sophie Pascoe Reflects on an Unusual Swimming Career

Dame Sophie Pascoe,a name synonymous with excellence in the world of Para swimming,has recently bid farewell to competitive swimming. Her legacy extends far beyond her extraordinary trophy cabinet, which overflows with 19 paralympic medals, including an astounding 11 golds. Pascoe has become a beacon of inspiration for generations, dismantling stereotypes and advocating for the inclusion of athletes with disabilities.

We sat down with this extraordinary athlete to delve into her remarkable journey and understand what truly propelled her to become the most triumphant Paralympian New Zealand has ever seen.

A Defining Commitment to the Pool

Archyde: Sophie, congratulations on a truly remarkable career. At what point did swimming become more than just a sport for you?

Sophie Pascoe: ItS funny,I fell in love with swimming when I was just seven years old.It felt magical every time I entered the water. as I grew older, it evolved into somthing much deeper. Swimming gave me a sense of purpose, a platform to express myself, and the opportunity to connect with remarkable individuals. The pool became my haven.

Sophie Pascoe: A Life Beyond the Pool

Sophie Pascoe’s journey from a young swimmer in the QEII Swim club to a multiple-time Paralympic champion is nothing short of extraordinary.Her story is a testament to unwavering dedication, the power of belief, and the unwavering pursuit of excellence. Remembering those early days, Pascoe reflects, “It was a whirlwind! I was so eager to learn, constantly training, and pushing myself to improve. Roly Crichton and Graham Condon believed in me from the start and helped me develop my skills and reach my potential. Looking back, those early days where filled with a mix of excitement, determination, and endless cups of Milo!”

Beyond her impressive athletic achievements, Pascoe’s commitment to disability inclusion has been equally profound. She uses her platform to inspire the next generation, sharing her message of hope and empowerment: “Never let anyone tell you what you can or cannot achieve.Have the confidence to chase your dreams, no matter how big they seem. Disability does not define you – your passions, your talents, and your spirit do. Embrace your individuality,work hard,and believe in yourself. You are capable of amazing things!”

Now, as Pascoe steps into a new chapter, she remains keen about the future. While acknowledging the cherished memories of her time as a competitive swimmer,

she looks forward to exploring new passions, spending quality time with loved ones, and continuing to advocate for a more inclusive world.