Determined young athlete is a role model for all

Lucas Ransley, a dedicated member of the Geographe Outrigger Canoe Club, has been named the Busselton Freight Rising Sports Star for August 2024.

Since joining the club in 2020 as a junior paddler, Lucas has grown into a role model for younger athletes, and he’s eager to share his passion for the sport as a future coach.

Lucas’s journey is one of resilience and determination.

In September and October last year, he faced significant challenges, undergoing multiple brain surgeries and stroke rehabilitation.

Despite these obstacles, Lucas remained focused, with the unwavering support of his family, who travelled weekly to Perth to support his training as he worked tirelessly to regain his strength.

His hard work paid off when he competed in the 2024 AOCRA National Marathon Outrigger Championships in Mooloolaba, Queensland. Lucas took first place in the 10km OC2 event in the open men’s category, and earned a silver medal in the U19 OC6 10km mixed event.

His recent achievements also include third place in the open men’s OC2 10km at the 2024 WA Senior State Outrigger Championships, first place in the V1 short course of the 2023 Battle of the Bay, and three first placings at the 2023 Junior State Outrigging Championships (U16 V1 1000m sprints, U19 OC6 1000m mixed sprints and U16/U19 V12 mixed 500m).

Lucas’s resilience and commitment make him a deserving recipient of the Busselton Freight Rising Sports Star award. He continues to inspire both his peers and younger athletes, proving that with determination, any obstacle can be overcome.

As the monthly winner, Lucas receives $400 and joins the pool of athletes eligible for the prestigious overall award, with $4000 to the overall winner, $2000 to the runner-up, and $800 for the recipient of the encouragement award.

Since 2008, the program has recognised young athletes like Lucas, who demonstrate exceptional talent and dedication in their sports.