New Zealand has unveiled its eight-member team for the 2025 World Para Athletics Championships, set to take place in New Delhi, India, from Sept. 27 to Oct.5.The team boasts a mix of seasoned world championship and Paralympic medalists, alongside three athletes making their international debut.

India will host the World Championships for the first time, welcoming over 1,000 athletes to compete in 186 medal events at New Delhi’s Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. The championships are a crucial milestone on the road to the 2028 Paralympic Games in Los Angeles.

A Unique Mentorship Takes Center Stage

Among the selected athletes is Paddy Walsh, who will compete in the women’s long jump T64, marking her first senior black singlet team. What makes this selection particularly special is her coach, Mitch Joynt, a seasoned para-sprinter who will also represent New Zealand in the men’s 200m T64.

Walsh expressed her excitement and gratitude: I feel really honoured to be selected to go to India this year. I feel like I’ve worked hard for it, and it feels kind of crazy knowing that I’ve been trying all thes years — and I didn’t really think I’d be able to get to this level as soon as I have. So I feel quite excited and a little bit nervous.

Joynt presented walsh with her black singlet during a regular training session, adding a profound layer of meaning to the moment. Walsh noted the comfort and guidance Joynt provides: It definitely gives me a bit of comfort, especially as I feel or else I’d be kind of going into it [world championships] a little uncertain. He’s got a lot of wisdom and can really help guide me and help get the best experience that I can.

Joynt shared his perspective on coaching Walsh: I’m obviously stoked to be selected again. It’s always a pleasure to get to represent New Zealand. He emphasized the depth of their connection: I’ve known Paddy probably a decade. I trained with her, and now I coach her, and I consider her a friend. No one deserves this more than paddy, and I’m really stoked for her, it’s amazing.

Joynt’s own international success includes a bronze medal in the men’s 200m T64 at the 2023 World Para Athletics Championships in Paris, followed by another bronze in the same event at Kobe, Japan, in 2024.

Meet the Team: A Blend of Experience and Emerging Talent

The New Zealand team features a diverse range of athletes, from Paralympic champions to promising newcomers:

• Anna Grimaldi: A three-time Paralympic champion, Grimaldi is set to compete in the women’s 100m T47 and 200m T47. She is remembered for her gold medal at the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games in the 200m T47.
• Will Stedman: Stedman will participate in the men’s 100m T36, 400m T36, and long jump T36. He has a history of strong performances at international competitions.
• Holly Robinson: Robinson will compete in the women’s shot put F46. Her decorated career includes gold and silver medals in javelin.
• Danielle Aitchison: Aitchison, selected for the women’s 100m T36 and 200m T36, set a new 200m T36 record at the 2024 World Para Athletics Championships in Kobe, Japan. She also secured dual silvers at the paris Paralympic Games.
• Michael whittaker: Whittaker will make his international debut in the 5000m T13. A former fashion model, Whittaker turned to running after being diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa. He holds a national half marathon T13 record of 1:13:54.
• Sarah James: James, the team’s only wheelchair racer, will compete in the 100m T53. She holds the NZ Senior and U20 100m T53 records.

A Vision for the future of Para Athletics

Athletics New Zealand Chief Executive Cam Mitchell emphasized the association’s commitment to Para sport and athlete development.

We’re incredibly proud of this team. It’s a group that brings together our moast experienced international medallists with exciting emerging athletes making their debut on the world stage. This shows the strength of our Para athletics program and the pathways we’re building to support long-term success.We’re confident this team will not only perform with distinction in New Delhi, but inspire future generations of Para athletes across Aotearoa.
Cam Mitchell, Athletics New Zealand Chief Executive

Full Team List

• anna Grimaldi – Women’s 100m T47 and 200m T47
• Will Stedman – Men’s 100m T36 & 400m T36, & long jump T36
• Holly Robinson – Women’s shot put F46
• Danielle Aitchison – Women’s 100m T36 & 200m T36
• Mitch Joynt – Men’s 200m T64
• Paddy Walsh – Women’s long jump T64 (Debut)
• Michael Whittaker – 5000m T13 (Debut)
• Sarah James – 100m T53 (Debut)