Type 1 Diabetes Champions Rewriting Games History

Standing tall among the nation’s top competitors are athletes living with type 1 diabetes (T1D). These athletes balance the physical demands of world-class athleticism with the daily management of T1D.

Their victories send a message to Victorians and all Australians: living with diabetes doesn't mean setting lower ambitions. Rather, with the right support, these athletes show that you can achieve whatever you set your mind to.

Managing T1D requires making hundreds of extra decisions every day. It means balancing carbohydrate intake, insulin doses, stress levels, sleep, and physical exertion. For an elite athlete, the margin for error is thin. Adrenaline surges can spike blood glucose, while endurance can cause sudden drops.

Yet, Australia’s T1D sport stars aren't just adapting, they are raising the bar!

Lachlan Kennedy, Australia’s Sprint Sensation

Having made history as one of Australia's fastest men in the 100m, Lachlan Kennedy manages his T1D with a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) and insulin pump.

"Type 1 diabetes in sport doesn't have to be a limiter," Kennedy says. "It teaches you incredible discipline, nutrition, and how to look after your body. If anything, it makes you a sharper athlete." 

Image: Instagram - @_lachiekennedy_

Lara McSpadden, Basketball Star

A Gold medallist with Australia's Gangurrus 3x3 basketball squad, McSpadden uses her platform to empower young people.

"I never pretend type 1 diabetes is easy," McSpadden says. "But I have never believed diabetes should decide what I can achieve.”

Image: Instagram @laramcspadden14

Emma-Sue Greentree, Combat Champion

Demonstrating the height of tactical grit in the boxing ring, middleweight athlete Greentree proves that high-impact combat sports and precise glycaemic management go hand-in-hand.

“I did say it. I said I wanted to be on top of the podium,” Greentree said. “And I wasn’t going to give up until I was, and I made it. It’s crazy. I’m a big believer that you can do whatever you want, no matter the circumstance.

“Diabetes, for me, has been more of a motivator than anything.”

Image: Instagram - @emma_suee

And these athletes are only a few

Australia also boasts performances from Stephanie Ratcliffe, Sarah Klau and Natasha Price.

Stephanie is Australia's national record holder and premier competitor in the hammer throw. She brings explosive power to the team.

Image: Instagram @steph.ratcliffe 

Sarah Klau is a key defender for the Australian team playing at the highest level of international netball.

“I want to show others that it's possible to do the things you enjoy most,” Sarah shares. “Living with diabetes has taught me resilience and how to listen to my body under pressure.”

Image: Instagram - @sarahklau

While Natasha Price competes in wheelchair racing and is a para-athletics champion.

Diagnosed with T1D in childhood, Natasha manages blood glucose levels over difficult endurance distances using CGM and meticulous hydration and fuelling strategies.

“Living with type 1 diabetes while competing in high-intensity endurance sports definitely brings extra challenges, but it also gives you an incredible sense of awareness,” she shares. “I hope seeing athletes with sensors on the track shows the next generation that diabetes doesn't have to put a ceiling on what you can achieve in sport.”

All of these athletes manage the physical demands of elite sports while managing their type 1 diabetes.

Image: Instagram - @the_invincable_woman

Modern Technology and the Discipline of Champions

A partner in the success of these athletes is the continual evolution of diabetes technology.

Devices like CGMs allow them to track their glucose levels in real time, helping them make quick decisions about their diabetes management.

However, technology is only part of the equation. What shines through in these performances is the resilience, routine, and self-belief.

Inspiration for Every Victorian Living with Diabetes

At Diabetes Victoria, we often hear from parents wondering if their newly diagnosed child can still play competitive sport. We listen to people who are questioning if their diagnosis means they can no longer take on that marathon.

“The achievements of our Commonwealth champions give a powerful answer. Yes, you can,” says Jo Walsh, living with type 1 diabetes.

"When people see athletes winning medals with a sensor on their arm, managing their insulin, checking their levels and taking a moment, it breaks down stigma and transforms how people view their own potential.

"Whether your goal is running your first 5 kilometres, starting a new hobby, excelling in your career, or thriving in everyday life, diabetes is part of your story, but it doesn't define your future."

Moving Forward Together

To every person in Victoria living with diabetes, let these Games serve as a victory lap for what our community can accomplish. Behind every medal is a story of grit, planning, and perseverance. These are qualities that every person with diabetes practices each day.

We would also like to thank these incredible athletes, their managers, supporters and families for being  part of something so special.

Need support, resources, or guidance on physical activity with diabetes? Contact Diabetes Victoria for general support or contact Diabetes Care Plus to get in touch with a health professional today.