06/09/2024
At 41, Erin Rowel’s journey is one of resilience and passion.
In 2004, she moved to the United States to pursue her dreams in motocross and modelling. However, a head-on collision in Illinois in 2010 resulted in serious leg, chest, and rib injuries, including the need to remove bones from her ankle, which now has limited movement and is 6 cm shorter than her other leg.
Erin initially turned to cycling for rehabilitation. What started as a way to heal soon became a passion. Cycling allowed Erin to stay active and push her limits, leading to remarkable achievements 🙌
She has competed in three World Championships, earning two bronze medals. Although she narrowly missed the 2024 Paris Paralympics team, Erin is already setting her sights on the 2028 Los Angeles Games.
In 2022 and 2023, Erin was a valued member of the Barwon Sports Academy (BSA). Identified by Paralympics Australia as an athlete with great potential, this partnership enabled Erin to gain support locally under the Paralympics Australia umbrella. The BSA provides crucial support, including strength and conditioning, holistic education, nutrition guidance, and access to sports psychologists.
All of these have been instrumental in Erin’s journey. Today, Erin is not just an Australian Paralympic Cyclist but also the owner and personal trainer at Torq F1t Training Solutions. Her story of perseverance and strength continues to inspire many.
As Erin puts it, “If it's something you really like or want to keep doing, keep practising; you never know where it's going to take you.” 🧡
If you’re interested in exploring cycling, contact the Geelong Cycling Club to learn more about getting started! If you are a talented athlete with a disability you can contact either the Barwon Sports Academy or Paralympics Australia directly.
IT STARTS HERE
