Jake’s Journey: From Determination to Torchbearer at the Athletics Carnival
At just 10 years old, Jake from Worongary State School has already shown a level of resilience and determination well beyond his years. Born prematurely at 24 weeks and weighing just 737 grams, Jake lives with GMFCS-1 Quadriplegic Dystonic Ataxic Cerebral Palsy, Dystonia and ADHD. His life so far has been filled with countless hospital visits, surgeries, specialists, and therapy appointments. But Jake doesn’t let this define him.
“I love life and try to do as much that I love as I can,” Jake says. Whether it’s Scouts, camping, kayaking, gaming, or even teaching himself Japanese, Jake is always looking for new challenges. His achievements are already impressive—he was the first Joey Scout from Nerang to receive the Joey Scout Challenge Peak Award, the highest recognition in the Joey Scout section.
The Fight to Attend
Jake first heard about the Gold Coast Recreation and Sport Disability Athletics Carnival a few years ago through a friend. Each year he asked to attend, and each year it didn’t happen. But Jake didn’t give up.
This year, he took matters into his own hands. He wrote a letter to his principal, gathered flyers and posters, and even enlisted the office staff to keep reminding the school leadership. With the support of his mum, Stephanie, Jake also contacted GCRS directly to ensure he could be involved—even if that meant representing himself without his school.
Finally, his persistence paid off. “I was super excited, happy and shocked,” Jake recalls. Stephanie adds, “He has advocated so much and has wanted this for four years now—I was just so happy for him.”
An Honour on the Track
Jake’s determination and advocacy didn’t just earn him a spot at the carnival—it earned him the honour of being chosen as the torch bearer for the official opening ceremony.
“To be selected made me feel excited, nervous, happy, proud and grateful,” Jake says. For Stephanie, watching her son carry the torch was unforgettable:
“As a parent, all you really want for your child is for them to be happy and noticed for their hard work and achievements. This came true for Jake in those moments. I am so incredibly proud of him.”
Competition and Connection
On the day, Jake competed in the 10–11 year boys’ 50m and 100m races, taking home a 3rd and 7th place ribbons and standing proudly on the winners’ podium for the very first time. He also embraced the carnival atmosphere, trying every challenge on offer—from mini golf and circus activities to playing with the giant footy alongside volunteers.
“The Athletics Carnival means that myself and other kids around the Gold Coast are actually seen and included,” Jake explains. “It means a fair go for kids who actually want to have a go in sports without the feeling of being not good enough in a general school setting.”
Stephanie agrees:
“You gave that back to Jake for the first time—a sense of accomplishment, pride and participation in an athletics environment. I’m so grateful to everyone involved.”
Looking Ahead
When asked if he’ll be back next year, Jake’s answer is instant: “ABSOLUTELY! DEFINITELY!” He also wants to advocate for more of his peers to join him in the future.
For Jake, the day wasn’t just about sport. It was about proving what’s possible when inclusion is prioritised. His story is a reminder that with persistence, support, and opportunities, every child can feel the pride of standing on the track, ribbon in hand, surrounded by friends and encouragement.
A heartfelt thankyou to Jake and Stephanie for sharing your story with us.
Does your school want to be involved in our next Athletics Carnival for Children with Disability? Email events@gcrs.com.au for more information