Cleveland Aquatic Centre’s Lifeguard Assistant, Russell Boysen has never let Down Syndrome get in the way of his passion for swimming, as can be seen by his latest race for gold this June at the Virtus Global Games in Vichy, France.  

Competing for Australia on the world stage for intellectually impaired athletes, Russell is making waves in a sport he loves, which will see him competing in the II2 classification for athletes with an intellectual impairment; with significant other impairments (i.e., Down syndrome). 

Russell has qualified and will compete in the following events: 
50m butterfly, 100m butterfly 
50m freestyle, 100m freestyle 
50m backstroke, 100m backstroke 
Russell will also likely be included in the four relays of the II2 classification 

As a committed and passionate swimmer, Russell has been competing at an international level since 2012. Competing at the World Down Syndrome Championships in 2012, 2014, 2016 and 2018, his dedication includes competing at Brisbane’s The INAS/Virtus Global Games and Virtus Oceania Asia Games in 2022. 

“Russell is an amazing young man,” said Venue Manager Gary Baldwin. “Swimming and working at Cleveland Aquatic Centre for approximately 10 years, he is a great worker who is much loved by his teammates, the staff and customers of our venue. We are so very proud of him!” 

Belgravia Leisure strives to support all in the community to connect and benefit from the services, programs, employment and facilities it provides in Australia and New Zealand. Through participation in these experiences, all people are provided access to opportunities that can contribute to improved health and happiness, irrespective of any personal characteristic or circumstance. 

Belgravia Leisure, with the community and team of Cleveland Aquatic Centre, wish Russell all the very best at the upcoming Virtus Global Games in France. Let’s bring home the gold! 

To find out more about Cleveland Aquatic Centre, visit their website here