Every four years, athletes from around the world come together for a chance to represent their country. Joining team Australia in the green and gold this year were four of our very own current students. Check out what they competed in and what they're studying.
“We're immensely proud of our students who have qualified to compete. Their dedication, resilience and commitment to excellence embody the spirit of UTS.” Andrew Parfitt, Vice-Chancellor
Current Students
Annabelle McIntyre (Bachelor of Science Mechanical Engineering) Women's Coxless Pair
Annabelle is an active member of the UTS sporting community, being named UTS’s Sportswoman of the Year for 2023. In 2020 she competed in the Tokyo games where she won gold alongside her teammates in Women’s Four Rowing.
Annabelle and her rowing partner won Australia a bronze medal in the Women's Coxless Pair final.
“Annabelle has a wonderful outlook and is extremely positive. I recall her winning the Athlete of the Year award at the UTS Blues Awards 2023, which was very well deserved.” Lucy McJannett, Elite Athlete Program Coordinator
Ben Dowling (Bachelor of Business) Rugby Seven’s
Ben has spent this year involved in the Australian Men's Rugby Seven's program where he was a standout player. After his time in the 2022 Birmingham Commonwealth Games, 2024 will be his first time competing at the highest level of sport.
Ben and his team placed fourth in the Rugby Seven’s final.
Patrick Holt (Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) and Bachelor of Science, Diploma in Professional Engineering Practice) Men's Coxless Pair
As a key member and representative of the UTS Haberfield Rowing Club, Patrick was named UTS Sportsman of the year in 2023. After winning a bronze, silver and gold medal at the 2023 World Rowing Championships and both 2023 World Rowing Cups, Patrick has cemented himself as a serious contender in Paris.
“A wonderful mentor to all EAP scholars, Patrick exemplifies true sportsmanship and is an excellent ambassador for UTS Sport. He is diligent and proactive in managing his high-level sporting commitments alongside his tertiary education.” Lucy McJannett, Elite Athlete Program Coordinator
Se-Bom Lee (Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) Bachelor of Medical Science) 200m Backstroke
Se-Bom Lee is back on the global stage after competing in the 2020 games. He solidified his spot this year after placing second in 200m backstroke at the Brisbane trials in June. Se-Bom says that the support from the EAP program at UTS has made it possible for him to manage his “rigorous training and academic schedules seamlessly.”
“I've watched Se-Bom race since he was 10 years old, and I am honoured to now be managing him on our UTS Elite Athlete Program. We are tremendously proud of Se-Bom and all he has achieved whilst studying here at UTS whilst reaching the pinnacle of sport.” Lucy McJannett, Elite Athlete Program Coordinator
Elite Athlete Program (EAP)
Balancing the workload of training and studying has been made possible for these students through the UTS Elite Athlete Program. Students in the program are provided with academic assistance, including flexible study timetables, financial assistance and access to private gyms and specialised training.
Alumni
Interested in finding out about the various alumni who also entered the main stage? You can check out the full list here.
We're so incredibly proud of our students and alumni for all of their achievements!
Header photo credit: UTS Elite Athlete Program